The government has postponed the declaration of its final position regarding the Eastern Container Terminal (ECT) of the Colombo Port, the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports
Authority (SLPA) General (Retd) Daya Rathnayake said.
Speaking to 'Neth News', he said that a decision to develop the ECT will be taken after considering the proposals of all the relevant stakeholders.
However, the trade unions affiliated to the port are adamant that they will not agree to any proposal that would allow India's Adani Group to invest in the ECT.
The General Secretary of Ports, Commercial Industries and Progressive Workers Union, Shyamal Sumanarathna said that they have the required vision and that they only need the required manpower to handle operations. He further said that if the government lacks adequate funds to develop the ECT, it would be beneficial for the government to hold on to the ECT without developing it.
The General Secretary of Ports, Commercial Industries and Progressive Workers Union, Shyamal Sumanarathna said that they have the required vision and that they only need the required manpower to handle operations. He further said that if the government lacks adequate funds to develop the ECT, it would be beneficial for the government to hold on to the ECT without developing it.
However, the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority Daya Rathnayake stated that they should work on a proposal that would be agreeable to all relevant stakeholders.
The decision to allow an Indian company to invest in the ECT of the Colombo Port has sparked a heated debate.
Many trade unions as well as civil society organisations have strongly opposed this venture.
However, the government has reiterated that the ECT will not be sold or leased to this company.
Many trade unions as well as civil society organisations have strongly opposed this venture.
However, the government has reiterated that the ECT will not be sold or leased to this company.
Mangala backs foreign investment
Meanwhile, former Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera has released a video on social media stating that foreign investment is essential for the development of the country.
He said that he commends the government's efforts to attract foreign investors to develop the ECT of the Colombo Port.
