Australia’s efforts to enhance Sri Lanka’s transportation infrastructure
Australian High Commissioner HE Paul Stephens emphasized the urgent need to improve public transportation in Sri Lanka, focusing on creating a passenger-friendly, comfortable, and safe service. He also discussed the potential for Australia to assist the Sri Lankan government in achieving this goal.
These points were raised during a special discussion between the Australian High Commissioner and the Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation, Hon. Bimal Rathnayake, at the Parliament Secretariat.
Minister Bimal Rathnayake provided an overview of Sri Lanka’s economic situation with a specific emphasis on the transportation sector during the meeting. He highlighted the importance of strengthening bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Australia, particularly in education, tourism, and hospitality.
Minister Bimal Rathnayake and the Australian High Commissioner engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the current state of Sri Lanka’s transportation sector, emphasizing the necessity for a more comfortable, safe, and affordable public transportation system. The Minister assured the High Commissioner of his commitment to implementing reforms in the transportation infrastructure.
The Australian High Commissioner stressed the importance of incorporating modern technology in the transportation sector to prioritize passenger and driver safety, along with significant improvements to road infrastructure.
The Australian High Commissioner highlighted the potential of railways in enhancing the transport of goods within Sri Lanka, suggesting a shift in focus from passenger transport. Minister Rathnayake confirmed the government’s consideration of this aspect and plans to improve railway freight services.
Additionally, the Australian High Commissioner emphasized the need to upgrade Sri Lanka’s port facilities to support economic growth, with a commitment from the Australian government to provide necessary assistance.
Australian High Commissioner Paul Stephens expressed interest in utilizing Australia’s expertise in agriculture and livestock to develop these sectors in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province and attract investments, aiming to strengthen the bilateral relationship further.
A delegation led by the Australian Deputy High Commissioner also participated in the discussions.
Australian High Commissioner HE Paul Stephens emphasized the need for a more passenger-friendly, comfortable, and safe public transportation system in Sri Lanka. He discussed potential Australian support to achieve this goal with Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation, Hon. Bimal Rathnayake. Both officials highlighted the importance of improving the transportation sector and strengthening bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Australia. They discussed modernizing infrastructure, prioritizing safety, enhancing railway freight services, upgrading port facilities, and developing the livestock industry in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province. The Australian government expressed willingness to provide support in these areas. The Australian Deputy High Commissioner also participated in the discussions.
