Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Anura Karunathilaka inspected the ongoing construction of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority’s new administrative building, the Maritime Facilitation Centre (MFC).

Deputy Minister Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku, Ministry Secretary W.W.S. Mangala, senior officials, SLPA Chairman Parakrama Dissanayake, and Managing Director Ganaka Hemachandra joined the inspection.

The new complex is being built at the Colombo Fort Canal Yard premises after several SLPA buildings were removed to make way for Port City development and the internal expressway. 

Construction began in July 2021 with funding from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), amounting to Rs. 5 billion and USD 2 million. Originally scheduled for completion within two years, progress was delayed due to the COVID‑19 pandemic and economic challenges. 

Work has now reached about 75% completion. The 19‑storey complex, covering 35,000 square meters, is designed to resemble a sailing ship once finished.

Located near the Customs headquarters, Sri Lanka Telecom, and major banks, the building will provide convenient access for port and maritime service users. Around 1,600 staff from 24 SLPA divisions will be housed in the facility, with easy transport links via Colombo Fort railway station and the central bus terminal.

Construction is being carried out by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation and the China Railway Group. The project is expected to be completed and handed over to the public by the end of 2026. (Newswire)

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The Ministry of Ports says the Port of Colombo recorded the highest container throughout in its history in 2025, with the annual volume reaching 8,290,000 TEUs.

According to a ministry statement, this record achievement was the result of the collective effort of the Jaya Container Terminal (JCT) and East Container Terminal (ECT) operated by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority, along with the South Asia Gateway Terminal (SAGT) managed by a Chinese company, and the Colombo International Container Terminal (CICT) operated by India’s Adani Group.

The 2025 figure reflects a 6% growth, as the Port of Colombo handled only 7,700,000 TEUs in 2024. 

To mark this milestone, a special ceremony was held at the East Container Terminal under the leadership of Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Anura Karunathilaka, with Deputy Minister Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku, Ministry Secretary W.W.S. Mangala, senior SLPA officials, and terminal heads in attendance.

The Ministry of Ports further stated that Colombo has also planned to enhance transshipment and logistics facilities in 2026 to strengthen its position as a central hub port. 

Furthermore, with the completion of construction at the East Container Terminal (ECT) and West Container Terminal (WCT) in 2026, the Port of Colombo will be able to handle a significantly larger volume of containers, contributing strongly to the country’s economic growth.

It is reported that at present, several leading global shipping companies have expressed confidence in Colombo’s operations, and more are expected to join in the future.

As such, Minister Anura Karunathilaka convened the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) management and foreign terminal operators to discuss their plans for 2026. 

He highlighted the financial contribution of this record achievement to the national economy and extended the government’s gratitude to all management and staff involved. He also assured full ministry support in 2026 to ensure continued success and progress. (Newswire)

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The ground breaking ceremony of Pentara Residencies, Colombo’s most iconic twin-tower development by Home Lands Group, was successfully held on Thursday, 28th August 2025 at Thummulla Handiya, Colombo.

The event was graced by the Minister of Urban Development, Construction and Housing, Hon. Anura Karunathilaka, Chairman of the Urban Development Authority, Eng. (Mr) Kumudu Lal, Chairman of the Condominium Management Authority, Eng. (Mr) Bandula Karunarathne, Director General of the Board of Investment, Mrs. Renuka M Weerakoon, along with senior government officials, distinguished invitees, customers, and well-wishers.

Addressing the audience, Minister of Urban Development, Construction and Housing, Hon. Anura Karunathilaka noted:

“Private sector companies like Home Lands bring in large-scale investment, generate employment, and contribute significantly through billions in tax revenue. Pentara Residencies project alone contributes nearly Rs. 15 billion in taxes. Projects of this magnitude bring in foreign exchange to the country and tax revenue to the government which in turn enable the government to provide housing to low-income groups and support essential public services across health, transport, and education. Additionally, Pentara will create substantial job opportunities, further boosting the economy. I wish Pentara all the success”

Also speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Nalin Herath, Chairman/Managing Director of Home Lands Group, said:

“Pentara is the largest residential real estate investment by a Sri Lankan developer, with an investment of USD 110 million, equivalent to around Rs. 35 billion. Beyond this scale, the project contributes significantly to the national economy not only by bringing much-needed foreign exchange into Sri Lanka, but also by contributing billions of rupees in taxes to the government through this single investment.”

Having obtained all relevant approvals and clearances, Pentara Residencies continues to move forward, offering 45+ star-class amenities, including Sri Lanka’s first five star floating sky restaurant, the Sri Lanka’s first cantilevered sky pool, and an iconic sky bridge connecting the twin towers at level 30. Rising over 40 levels, the twin towers will house 362 units, featuring Deluxe Apartments, Sky Villas, Penthouses, and Sky Mansions. In just two and a half months since its launch, 50% of the units have already been sold, reflecting strong confidence from both local and international buyers.

The ground breaking of Pentara Residencies in Thummulla Handiya, successfully concluded with the laying of foundation stones, religious observances, and fellowship, officially marking the start of this landmark project, set to redefine luxury living in Colombo.

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Minister Anura Karunathilaka informed Parliament today that the sons and relatives of Presidents, ministers and Parliamentarians had benefited from the President’s Fund. 

Addressing the Parliament today, Minister Anura Karunathilaka said the Presidential Fund’s Scholarship had been used between 2005 to 2014.

It was disclosed in Parliament that the following persons of former MPs benefited from the President’s Fund;

• MP Harshana Rajakaruna – Son of former Gampaha District MP Sarath Chandra Rajakaruna
• I.N. Kodituwakku – Relative of former Colombo District MP Karunasena Kodituwakku in 2006
• V. Radhakrishnan – Relative of former National List MP V. Radhakrishnan in 2006
• Dinesh Dodangoda, through political affiliations in 2006
• K.K. Paranavithane in 2006

Minister Anura Karunathilaka revealed that the money for scholarships disbursed is as follows;

• Over Rs. 73 million in 2005
• Over Rs. 75 million in 2006
• Over Rs. 33 million for 42 individuals in 2007
• Over Rs. 11 million for 18 persons in 2008
• Over Rs. 03 million to four persons in 2009
• Over Rs. 03 million to three people in 2010
• Over Rs. 01 million to two individuals in 2011
• Over Rs. 03 million for 02 persons in 2012
• Over Rs. 400,000 to one person in 2014

Minister Anura Karunathilaka said that it has been proven that money from the President’s Fund had been used by children and relatives of Presidents, Ministers and MPs in the past. (Newswire)

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Minister of Urban Development, Construction and Housing, Anura Karunathilaka, has been elected as the President of the Sri Lanka-Canada Parliamentary Friendship Association for the Tenth Parliament of Sri Lanka.

According to a Parliament statement, Parliamentarian Chandima Hettiaratchi was elected as the Secretary of the Association.

The appointments were made during the revival meeting of the Association was held recently (06 June) at the Parliament premises.

The meeting took place under the patronage of the Speaker of Parliament, Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne, while it was also attended by the High Commissioner of Canada to Sri Lanka, Eric Walsh, as the Guest of Honour.   

Addressing the meeting, Speaker Jagath Wickramaratne recalled the longstanding bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Canada that have spanned over seven decades. He also highlighted Canada’s position as Sri Lanka’s 9th largest export market. 

Emphasizing the importance of strengthening inter-parliamentary relations, he stated that the Parliamentary Friendship Association will serve as a vital bridge between the legislatures of both nations. The Speaker also urged Canada to pay greater attention to the investment opportunities available in Sri Lanka.

During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed the deep-rooted friendship between Sri Lanka and Canada, which has been built on shared values and mutual respect.  

In his speech, the newly elected President Anura Karunathilaka emphasized the vital role of the Friendship Association as a bridge between the two Parliaments and expressed confidence in fostering meaningful engagement to deepen the already strong ties between Sri Lanka and Canada.

Delivering the vote of thanks, the Secretary of the Friendship Association, Chandima Hettiaratchi, conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to Canada for its enduring friendship and reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to continued cooperation.

Prior to the revival meeting of the Parliamentary Friendship Association, the Speaker held a discussion with the Canadian High Commissioner. During this meeting, the Speaker highlighted plans to soon establish a Research Centre within Parliament. 

This centre will aim to provide clear and comprehensive information on legislative processes to all relevant stakeholders, including members of provincial councils and local authorities.

He further emphasized the government’s firm commitment to eradicating corruption and malpractice. (Newswire)

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