The Chairman of Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) – Mr.Keith D. Bernard says that in reference to the Port of Colombo, the foremost objective is to transition towards a highly environmentally-conscious approach, aligning with the principles of a blue ocean economy in the foreseeable future.
He made these statements welcoming a special World Bank delegation led by Ms. Cecile Fruman – Director, South Asia Regional Integration and Engagement and Ms. Mandakini Kaul – Regional Coordinator, South Asia Regional Integration and Engagement, at the Port of Colombo (POC). On the occasion of a policy dialogue meeting on Regional Cooperation in South Asia, the World Bank had organized this field visit, to showcase the role of Port of Colombo (POC) as a growing maritime hub of the South Asia Region. The visit is also a part of a dialogue series that is convened periodically by the World Bank, to informally bring together a group of eminent South Asians to discuss opportunities and challenges in regional cooperation.
Speaking further at the occasion, the SLPA Chairman said that SLPA was committed to transforming into an eco-friendly port by 2030, with a strong emphasis on renewable energy sources.
“In this context, we are actively exploring green energy solutions, including green methanol, green ammonia, and green hydrogen.
As part of our ongoing development plans for the Port of Colombo, we are committed to providing shore power to all vessels from our terminals. Simultaneously, we are dedicated to minimizing the carbon footprint associated with our operations at the Port of Colombo. We are working diligently to achieve these sustainability goals, “ he said.