SLPA delegation visits Port of Antwerp-Bruges to advance cooperation

Aims to formalise strategic MoU focused on operational cooperation, innovation, and sustainable development

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A delegation from the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) visited the Port of Antwerp-Bruges International (PoABI) in Belgium recently as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration between the two port authorities.

The visit was organised by the Sri Lankan Embassy in Brussels allows a series of discussions held since 2024 and aims to formalise a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on operational cooperation, innovation, and sustainable development.

The SLPA delegation, led by Managing Director Eng. Ganaka Hemachandra, held meetings with senior officials from PoABI and representatives of the Antwerp/ Flanders Port Training Centre (APEC), including PoABI International Relations and Networks Vice President Luc Arnouts. The discussions explored potential areas of collaboration such as knowledge sharing, technical exchanges, investment opportunities, logistics coordination, green initiatives, and advancements in digital innovation and sustainability.

The Port of Antwerp-Bruges is one of Europe’s principal seaports, strategically situated at the intersection of major North Sea shipping routes and connected to Europe’s industrial heartlands via an extensive network of inland waterways. In contrast, the Port of Colombo, managed by SLPA, is South Asia’s foremost transhipment hub and a vital component of Sri Lanka’s economic infrastructure. Positioned along the East-West maritime corridor, Colombo provides access to fast-growing markets across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.