A delegation from the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), led by Managing Director Eng. Ganaka Hemachandra, visited the Port of Antwerp-Bruges to enhance collaboration in port operations, digital innovation, and sustainability. Facilitated by the Sri Lankan Embassy in Brussels, the visit aims to formalize a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ports of Colombo and Antwerp-Bruges, focusing on digitalization and sustainable development.
The SLPA team engaged with senior officials from PoABI and APEC, including Luc Arnouts, Vice President of International Relations, to explore shared goals and future cooperation. During their visit to Belgium, the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) delegation explored avenues for technical collaboration, investment, sustainable development, and logistics enhancement. The team toured DP World’s cutting-edge Antwerp Gateway terminal and CMB.TECH’s Hydrogen Refuelling Station, gaining firsthand exposure to advanced digital port operations and clean energy innovations.
These learnings are set to influence SLPA’s modernization strategies across Colombo, Galle, and Trincomalee. As South Asia’s leading transshipment hub, Colombo Port is poised to benefit significantly from Antwerp’s deep expertise in terminal automation, green practices, and efficient hinterland connectivity.
The MoU will formalize collaboration on training, technical exchange, and pilot projects, particularly in digitalization and decarbonization. Both ports share commitments to lowering emissions, modernizing infrastructure, and building resilient global supply chains. In April, the world’s largest Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) vessel made its maiden call at the Colombo East Container Terminal (CECT) of SLPA.
