Lanka, Saudi Arabia discuss stronger port, maritime ties
Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation Minister Bimal Rathnayake held talks with Eng. Suliman bin Khalid Al-Mazroua, President of the Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI), in Jeddah, on expanding maritime and port cooperation between the two countries, the Lankan Embassy in Riyadh said.
The meeting, held on the sidelines of the 2nd Sustainable Maritime Industry Conference, hosted by Saudi Arabia, on September 3–4, focused on strengthening collaboration between key ports and enhancing connectivity along shipping routes linking South Asia and the Middle East.
Minister Rathnayake underscored Sri Lanka’s strategic location and recent political and economic progress, inviting Saudi investors to explore opportunities in its port and maritime sectors. He also stressed the potential for shared growth through closer maritime links.
Both sides agreed to deepen cooperation in seafarer training and to work more closely within international forums such as the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
Minister Rathnayake was joined by Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ameer Ajwad, Acting Consul General in Jeddah Mafusa Lafir, Additional Director General D.A.S. Jayasekara and Private Secretary Asanka Chandrasena. The Saudi delegation included MAWANI’s President, Vice President and senior officials.
