Govt. keen to make ports and shipping a key contributor to economic revival

Ports and Shipping Minister Rohitha Abeygunawardena yesterday pledged to transform port and shipping sectors as a key contributor to revive the economy, while expressing optimism on developing the strongest ports in the region.

He made these remarks assuming duties at the Ministry yesterday amidst blessings of the Maha Sangha and other religious clergy.

“The people have twice endorsed President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s ‘Vistas of Prosperity and Splendour’ national policy framework. Over 6.9 million people voted for him and then gave a mandate with a two-thirds majority at the recently-concluded General Election. Now, it is our responsibility to fulfil that responsibility as a Government. The objective now is to make the port and shipping sector one of the strongest in the region,” Abeygunawardena said.

Keeping in line with the ‘Vistas of Prosperity and Splendour’ national policy framework, the Minister assured that the institutions under the purview of the ministry would also contribute vigorously in the revival process of the economy post-COIVD-19 pandemic.

Abeygunawardena also expressed gratitude to President, Prime Minister and the Founder of Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Basil Rajapaksa for the confidence placed in his capacity to transform the port and shipping sector to greater heights in the future. 

“We look forward to continue this journey together with the State Minister, Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) Chairman, ministry secretary and all other heads of the departments, private sector companies and all engaged in related industries with the fullest cooperation,” he added.  

Education Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris, Plantations Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana, Warehouse Facilities, Container Yards, Ports Supply Facilities and Boat and Shipping Industry Development State Minister Jayantha Samaraweera, Ports and Shipping Ministry Secretary M.V.K. Mayadunne, Ports and Shipping Ministry Additional Secretary Kumari Somarathne, SLPA Chairman (Rtd.) General Daya Ratnayake, SLPA Vice Chairman and Managing Director W.S. Weeraman, SLPA Additional Managing Director Upali de Zoysa, Ports and Shipping Ministry directors, SLPA executive officials, SLPA trade union representatives, officials affiliated to port institutions, and residents of Kalutara District were also present at the occasion.