Colombo Plan receives US funding for three-year project meant to improve SLPA

The Colombo Plan, with US funding, has launched a three-year programme to enhance the technical expertise of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) staff and advance “smart” port operations at the Port of Colombo.

The Colombo Plan and Sri Lanka Ports Authority signed a letter of intent at the launch held on January 31 and a memorandum of understanding (MoU) would follow, a spokesperson for the Colombo Plan said.

The project would contribute to the development and sustainability of maritime and port operations in Sri Lanka by introducing modern port systems, new technologies, and international best practices.

U.S. funding supports Sri Lanka’s ports initiative to boost productivity and competitiveness, positioning its ports as crucial regional hubs in South Asia, the official said.

At the launch, U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung reaffirmed U.S. commitment to supporting the rapidly growing ports industry of Sri Lanka, noting: “In partnership with the Colombo Plan, the United States aims to enhance the knowledge, technical skills, and expertise of Sri Lanka Port Authority’s (SLPA) professionals through training on current trends, international best practices, and technological advancements in ports management. The United States is committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s ports sector to meet the growing demands of the global economy, fostering economic prosperity for all Sri Lankans.”

Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Aviation, Nimal Siripala de Silva, expressed gratitude for this supportive gesture and thanked the US government for continuously helping Sri Lanka and the port sector. The Secretary to the Ministry mentioned that he has tabled the project to the Cabinet-of-Ministers as well.

The Colombo Plan capacity building programme encompasses diverse training and development initiatives, such as visits to U.S. ports, technical training exchanges, conferences, and workshops conducted by both local and international experts. This collaborative effort aims to enhance the capabilities of ports, improving efficiencies and expanding the delivery of value-added services.