SLPA signs pact with Chinese for Colombo Port expansion

Colombo: A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) and a consortium comprising China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd, and Sino Hydro Corporation Limited of the People's Republic of China concerning the Detailed Design Works of Hambantota Port Development Project (Phase I) was signed in here.

Upon the request of President Mahinda Rajapaksa the Government of the People's Republic of China has agreed to look into the possibility of providing the required technical assistance and concessionary funding for this important national project.

The Minister of Ports and Aviation Mangala Samaraweera has also instructed the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) to expedite the Hambantota Port Development Project.

Under the direction of the Ministry of Ports and Aviation, the Detailed Design Works of the Phase I 'A' of the Hambantota Port Development Project will be undertaken jointly by SLPA officials and Chinese specialists.

It is expected that the SLPA will also participate in the construction works of the project together with contractors from the Chinese consortium.

Chairman of Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) Saliya Wickramasuriya and, Tang Oiaoliang on behalf of the Chinese Consortium. Vice Chairman of SLPA Priyath B. Wickrama, Managing Director W.G. Samaratunga, Advisor to the Ministry Dr. Krishan Deheragoda, Executive Director Dr. Irshad Mushen, Director Prasanna Kalutharage, officers of SLPA and representatives of the Chinese Consortium were also present at the occasion.