SL, Singapore explore cooperation in maritime, port development, and aviation sectors

Sri Lankan High Commissioner to Republic of Singapore Senarath Dissanayake with Singapore Transport Minister and Second Finance Minister Chee Hong Tat 

Sri Lankan High Commissioner to the Republic of Singapore Senarath Dissanayake recently met with Singapore Transport Minister and Second Finance Minister Chee Hong Tat and discussed potential collaborations between the two countries on shared initiatives.

During the meeting, Dissanayake provided an overview of the opportunities in Sri Lanka, particularly in the maritime and port development sectors. He detailed the Sri Lankan Government’s plans to transform the Colombo Port into a green and eco-friendly port by 2030, focusing on renewable energy sources and in line with the principles of a blue ocean economy.

Chee highlighted Singapore’s efforts in maritime decarbonisation and digitalisation, aimed at enhancing efficiency, resilience, and sustainability in international shipping. He emphasised the importance of a global network of ports using cleaner fuels to achieve these goals. The Minister added that ports in several countries including China, Japan, and Australia are already part of the Green-Digital Shipping Corridor program. 

In response, the High Commissioner expressed interest in joining the Colombo Port in Singapore’s Green-Digital Shipping Corridor initiative and acknowledged the potential for collaboration. The Minister assured that he would explore the feasibility of a partnership between Sri Lanka and Singapore ports in this initiative with the relevant authorities.

In addition, Chee suggested that Sri Lanka could explore the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), leveraging its renewable energy potential. SAF represents a promising opportunity for the aviation industry, aligning with global sustainability goals. 

Dissanayake, acknowledging Singapore’s advanced technological capabilities and innovative standards, requested support for training and knowledge transfer for Sri Lankan officials in the port and aviation sectors. Recognising the importance of exchanging expertise and fostering stronger ties in these key areas, the Minister mentioned that Sri Lanka could benefit from training programs offered by various Singaporean authorities, including the Singapore Aviation Academy, Maritime Training Facility, and the Maritime and Port Authority. 

Future Mobility Deputy Director and Minister’s Special Assistant Choo Jun Quan, International Relations Acting Deputy Director Chan Guolong, and International Relations Executive Dominic Lim, Sri Lankan High Commission in Singapore Chancery Head and Minister Ahamed Razee and Commercial Minister Yasantha Yaddehi also attended the meeting.