U.S. Embassy in Colombo Hosts Event on Sustainable Development in the Ports Sector in conjunction with the Indo-Pacific Business Forum in Manila
In conjunction with the Indo-Pacific Business Forum in Manila, the U.S. Embassy in Colombo organized a satellite event themed “Driving Sustainable Development in the Ports Sector.” The event took place on May 21, 2024, at the Courtyard by Marriott in Colombo.
This half-day event featured presentations and panel discussions by industry leaders, international organizations, and foreign governments, targeting commercial representatives from the ports, shipping, and logistics sectors. Discussions focused on successful policies and procedures currently in place, highlighting the effective use of energy-efficient hardware and cargo management software in ports. The potential for Sri Lankan and Maldivian ports to reduce their carbon footprints was also showcased.
Ambassador to the United States of America – H.E.Julie Chung, Australian High Commissioner – H.E.Paul Stephens, Ambassador of Japan – H.E.Mizukoshi Hideaki, Regional Indo-Pacific Strategy Coordinator for the US Embassy in Colombo –Dustin R.Bickel and Head, Global Maritime Crime Programme, UNODC, Sri Lanka – Siri Bjune were present at the event.
The Chairman of Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) – Mr. Keith D. Bernard, the Chief Executive Officer of the South Asia Gateway Terminals (SAGT) – Mr. Romesh David, Chief executive Officer of the Colombo West International Terminal (CWIT) – Mr. Harikrishnan Sundaram, MPL Chief Product Officer – Mr.Ahamed Inaan, and Rebel Group Consultant – Vasiliki Krali attended the deep dive panel discussion and interactive engagement on sustainability measures in the port terminals at the event. The panel discussion was moderated by the SAGT Chief Commercial Officer – Mr. Ted Muttiah.
The U.S. Trade and Development Agency and the Government of the Philippines co-hosted the 6th Indo-Pacific Business Forum in Manila, Philippines, on May 21, in partnership with the U.S. Department of State.
