Sampath Bank signs landmark agreement for Port City Colombo Branch

From left: Xiong Hongfeng and Deepal De Silva during the agreement signing 

Sampath Bank PLC has officially received approval from the Governing Board of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka to establish a dedicated branch within Port City Colombo, marking a significant move that reinforces Sri Lanka’s ambition to emerge as a globally connected financial and investment hub. 
This milestone represents a major step forward not only for the Bank’s expansion strategy but also for the broader transformation of Sri Lanka’s financial ecosystem.
This strategic expansion was formalised through an agreement signed by Deepal De Silva, Chief Operating Officer of Sampath Bank PLC, and Xiong Hongfeng, Managing Director of CHEC Port City Colombo (Pvt) Ltd. 
The branch, to be established at Building 1 of the Business Centre at Port City Colombo – Commercial Hub, is expected to serve as a key financial access point for businesses, individuals andinvestors operating both in Sri Lanka and internationally.
As an Authorised Persons Licensed Institution under the Colombo Port City Economic Commission, Sampath Bank is now positioned to offer a comprehensive portfolio of banking and financial solutions tailored to both residents and non-residents operating within the Port City Colombo jurisdiction, across Sri Lanka and worldwide. The branch will provide services in Sri Lankan Rupees as well as designated foreign currencies, enabling seamless international financial transactions and greater flexibility for investors, corporations, entrepreneurs, global business entities and individuals.
Speaking on the occasion, Sanjaya Gunawardana, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Sampath Bank PLC, emphasised the strategic importance of Port City Colombo to the nation’s future. He noted that Port City Colombo presents a transformative opportunity for Sri Lanka to enhance its position as an internationally connected financial and investment destination.
“A key part of our role as master developer is ensuring that Port City Colombo continues to evolve into a business environment that is practical, well-supported and ready for day-to-day operations,” said Xiong Hongfeng, Managing Director of CHEC Port City Colombo (Pvt) Ltd. He noted that the continued expansion of banking and financial services within the City plays an essential role in advancing that progress. 
The establishment of this branch reflects Sampath Bank’s commitment to supporting international commerce and facilitating foreign direct investment into Sri Lanka. Through its presence in Port City Colombo, the Bank aims to create a modern banking environment that aligns with international financial standards and caters to the evolving needs of global markets.