Sri Lanka, Japan, and India have reached an agreement to cooperate on the development of Colombo South Port’s East Container Terminal (ECT) in Sri Lanka.

The governments of the respective countries signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) on the matter on May 28, reflecting the longstanding good will and cooperation among the parties.

Japan has provided cooperation for the development of the Jaya Container Terminal since the 1980’s, while around 70% of Colombo Port’s transshipment business is India-related.

Sri Lanka, Japan and India will work together for further development of the Colombo Port and contribute to further regional prosperity and stability of global trading networks.

Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) retains 100% ownership of East Container Terminal. The Terminal Operations Company (TOC) conducting all East Container Terminal operations is jointly owned by Sri Lanka, with a 51% stake, and the joint venture partners with a 49% stake.

SLPA said that the three governments would work out details based on the MOC at joint working group meetings, and advance their cooperation towards early commencement of work and operation of the ECT.

Reference:worldmaritimenews.com