COLOMBO : Sri Lanka and India held a special discussion today to expedite the finalisation of proposed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for the development of the Kankesanthurai (KKS) Port with the support of the Indian Government.
The discussion was held at the Ministry premises under the leadership of Minister of Energy, Ports and Civil Aviation Anura Karunathilaka, with Deputy High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, Mr. Maitrey Kulkarni, and an Indian delegation participating in the talks.
The discussions focused on resolving outstanding issues in the proposed agreements, with both sides engaging in extensive discussions and reaching agreements on several key matters.
The proposed Kankesanthurai Port Development Project is expected to strengthen passenger and cargo transport services between Sri Lanka and India while enhancing maritime connectivity between India and Northern Sri Lanka.
It was also proposed to establish a Joint Steering Committee and a Technical Committee to oversee and implement the project.
The Indian delegation agreed to present the progress of the discussions to the Indian Government and work towards obtaining a final decision at an early date.
The project is expected to improve port infrastructure in Northern Sri Lanka, strengthen regional economic activity and create greater opportunities for communities in the Northern Province.
Deputy Minister Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku, Ministry Secretary W.W.S. Mangala, the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority, officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant officials also attended the discussion.
Following an inspection of the current condition of the Kankesanthurai Port in February 2026, Minister Karunathilaka had directed relevant Ministry and Sri Lanka Ports Authority officials to expedite the necessary arrangements to commence the project, with the MoUs expected to be signed in the near future.
