On 23 September, on the initiative of the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Egypt, Damayanthie Rajapakse, First Administrator (Industrial) Shiwanthi Abeyrathne and Trade Associate of the Embassy, Ahmed Selim, visited the Suez Canal Authority in Ismailia, Egypt.
This trip held to
address the technical capabilities of Sri Lanka in the field of shipbuilding
and shipbuilding and dry-dock facilities, its potential for nautical tourism,
and the exploration of avenue tourism. Embassy officials met with the Suez
Canal Authority team led by Salah Eldin Gouda Abomosallam, the Director of the
Procurement Department. Shiwanthi Abeyrathne highlighted the rapidly increasing
technological advances made by Sri Lanka in this sector during the discussions.
He also stressed on its strategic location, highly trained workforce, low labor
costs, and the handiness of one of the finest natural ports in the Asian area
paved the way for the success achieved by Sri Lanka in the boat and
shipbuilding sector.
To demonstrate the
shipbuilding excellence achieved by Sri Lanka, the KDDI Cable Laying Vessel
designed by Colombo Dockyard PLC emphasized. Following the presentation made by
the Mission officials, the Suez Canal Authority team expressed their keen
interest in the purchase from Sri Lanka of tugboats, pilot boats, and dredgers.
Accordingly, the
Mission officials agreed to pursue the matter with the Sri Lankan stakeholders,
exploring all possible avenues for establishing relations between the Suez
Canal Authority and the Sri Lankan counterparts for the supply of the vessels
manufactured in Sri Lanka needed.
The ancient
backdrop of Sri Lanka supporting Egypt and the Suez crisis at the UN General
Assembly in 1956. Subsequently, the election of Sri Lanka as a member of the
Suez Advisory Board was discussed during the deliberations, bringing to light
the critical milestones in history that have improved diplomatic ties between
Sri Lanka and Egypt.
OSL Take: The
government of Sri Lanka focused on making the country a maritime hub in the
Indian Ocean region. Colombo and Hambantota Ports has seen progress indicating
that the government's objectives may by fulfilled soon. The port already has an
industrial zone on the premises, which provides an ideal business space for
companies engaged in exports and logistics.
All these
developments would help Sri Lanka engage in trade activities with other
countries. On the other hand, Sri Lanka could attract more cruise liners to the
state by developing other harbors worldwide and developing the required
infrastructure facilities. Foreign businesses/investors should explore the
increasing investment opportunities in Sri Lanka's ports and shipping sector.
VBS/AT/0511/2020/Z_TB1
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