All Investments and Partnerships in Sri Lanka Must Be Accountable and Properly Regulated – PM

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya said that while both public and private investment is necessary for large-scale infrastructure development, all investments and partnerships in Sri Lanka must be carried out with full accountability and proper regulation.

The Prime Minister made these remarks on September 30 while participating in the official opening of Phase II of the Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT) at the Port of Colombo.

Speaking further, Prime Minister Amarasuriya said the port sector has a major role to play in strengthening Sri Lanka’s economy and building a competitive economy driven by modern technology.

She said Sri Lanka’s location close to major shipping routes in the Indian Ocean is a significant advantage for the country.

She added that the Government expects to make proper use of Sri Lanka’s advanced port infrastructure, skilled workforce and access to international markets to attract sustainable investment, create employment, increase exports and accelerate economic transformation.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the modern digital technologies being used at the CWIT terminal, including automated cranes, electric terminal vehicles (Electric ITVs) and real-time monitoring systems.

She said that while increasing the physical capacity of the port is important, it is equally essential to develop local technical and human skills capable of operating such technologies.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya said both public and private investment is required for large-scale infrastructure development. However, she stressed that all such investments and partnerships must be undertaken with accountability and proper regulation.

She said attention must be paid not only to the volume of investment entering the country, but also to its quality, sustainability and compatibility with Sri Lanka’s long-term economic and strategic interests.

She further said Sri Lanka’s economic future depends on building strong relationships with regional and international partners.

In particular, she said there is significant potential to further strengthen Sri Lanka’s trade, investment and people-to-people relations with India, while respecting the mutual interests and priorities of both countries.

The event was attended by Western Province Governor Hanif Yusuf, Deputy Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Janith Ruwan Kodithuwakku, Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha, Secretary to the Prime Minister G. Pradeep Saputhanthri, Secretary to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Aviation W. W. S. Mangala, along with senior government officials, chairpersons and heads of institutions.