The ‘Colombo Plans,’ a regional intergovernmental organization comprising 28 Asia-Pacific countries, is set to enhance the capacity of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) through a three-year maritime consultation program. This initiative aims to bolster Sri Lanka’s ability to address complex maritime challenges by improving safety, security, and connectivity through regional cooperation and knowledge sharing.
The project will focus on upgrading SLPA’s human resource capabilities through professional training aligned with global standards and best practices. Key activities include port study-exchange programs, capacity-building initiatives, and visits by international maritime experts to advise the SLPA.
Supported by funding from the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs through the U.S. Embassy in Colombo, this program is part of broader efforts under the Colombo Plans. Other initiatives within the organization include drug advocacy, gender equality programs, and economic and climate change projects.
The first workshop under the Maritime Advocacy Program, titled “Empowering Communications for Maritime Connectivity,” brought together key figures such as Colombo Plans Secretary General Benjamin P. Reyes, Indo-Pacific Strategy Coordinator Dustin Bickel, Deputy Director of Defense Support John Wise, and SLPA Chairman Keith Barnard.
