June 08, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s Deputy Minister of Transport and Highways, Prasanna Gunasena, has underscored the enduring bond between Sri Lanka and China, describing the relationship as one of deep mutual respect and longstanding goodwill.
His remarks were made during a visit to a major infrastructure development currently underway in Colombo.
Accompanied by senior officials including Road Development Authority Director General K.W. Kandambi and delegates from the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), the Deputy Minister toured the site of the Port Access Elevated Highway — a signature project in the capital’s transport transformation plan.
Spanning over 5 kilometres, the elevated expressway is poised to become the nation’s longest bridge. Designed with a dual carriageway and four-lane system, the structure is being constructed using sophisticated segmental box girder techniques, representing a leap in engineering standards for the country.
Speaking to Chinese state media during the visit, Gunasena praised China’s continuous involvement in Sri Lanka’s development journey. He noted that China has played a crucial role in funding and implementing large-scale infrastructure projects over the years, contributing significantly to the island’s economic and logistical capacity.
“We see China not merely as a development partner but as a long-standing friend. It is our hope that this relationship continues to thrive for generations to come,” he remarked.
The Deputy Minister emphasised the economic potential of the highway, which will streamline transport links between Colombo Port and the city centre. Once completed, the route is expected to ease congestion, improve logistics, and support broader economic activities tied to trade and transport.
“This project is more than just concrete and steel — it represents an investment in the future of our economy and the daily lives of our citizens,” Gunasena stated, adding that its completion is anticipated to bring tangible benefits to both the business sector and the general public.
The Port Access Elevated Highway, now in its final stages, marks yet another chapter in Sri Lanka’s collaborative efforts with international partners, particularly China, in shaping a modern, connected infrastructure network across the island nation.
