Sri Lanka, JICA agree to fast-track BIA second passenger terminal project
The Sri Lankan Government and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have agreed to quickly resume and complete construction of the second passenger terminal at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake.
A special discussion on the project was held recently at the Ministry of Ports and Civil Aviation, with Minister Anura Karunathilaka meeting a senior JICA delegation.
The Japanese Government has agreed to support the resumption of construction work on the second passenger terminal, which had been temporarily suspended, following successful discussions between President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the Japanese Government.
Following those discussions, Minister Karunathilaka held several rounds of talks with the Japanese Ambassador to Sri Lanka and senior JICA officials.
JICA has also agreed to provide the additional loan facilities required for the project, with the related arrangements now in their final stages.
Further discussions are being held with the construction company selected under the approved tender procedure to move forward with the project.
During the meeting, attention was also given to establishing a Vessel Traffic Management System to improve the management of ship movements at the Port of Colombo.
It was decided to seek the necessary assistance for the system and submit the related proposal through the Department of External Resources.
Minister Karunathilaka said accelerating the second passenger terminal project at BIA is one of the Government’s main priorities.
He said the Government is making every effort to create a more welcoming and attractive environment for tourists and investors arriving in Sri Lanka.
The Minister also expressed his appreciation for the continued support provided by the Japanese Government and JICA for development projects in Sri Lanka, particularly those implemented under the Ministry of Ports and Civil Aviation.
JICA Vice President Shohei Hara and JICA Chief Representative Shigeo Honzu were among the delegation that attended the discussion.
The Secretary to the Ministry also participated in the meeting.