The management of the financially burdened Mattala International Airport will soon be entrusted to a joint venture between Russia and India, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva announced.
Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva said the transfer of management will take place in the next few weeks.
He further said that despite interest from Chinese firms in Sri Lankan airport projects, contractual obligations with Japan stipulate that contracts should be awarded to Japanese companies.
Commenting on the restructuring of national carrier, SriLankan Airlines, he said the government’s approach involves restructuring the airline rather than selling it outright.
The minister revealed that under Sri Lankan law, only 49% of SriLankan Airlines’ shares can be transferred to another entity.
“However, there has been minimal global interest in this opportunity, with only six individuals expressing interest, none of whom were deemed suitable. Even if we were to extend this opportunity to a Sri Lankan entrepreneur, their capabilities would need to be demonstrated,” he added.
Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva made the remarks while addressing a press briefing at the Presidential Media Centre today. (Newswire)