Philippines Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Leo Tito L. Ausan, reaffirmed his country's commitment to bolstering Sri Lanka's naval and aviation capabilities during a meeting with Ports, Shipping, and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva today.
Ambassador Ausan underscored the Philippines' comprehensive support for Sri Lanka's future endeavors in naval and aviation sectors, highlighting plans to enhance cooperation and technical assistance between the two nations.
Ausan also addressed the burgeoning tourism ties, noting a growing interest among Filipino tourists to visit Sri Lanka. He emphasized the need to reinstate direct flights between Manila and Katunayake, which have been on hiatus for an extended period.
Minister de Silva responded positively, directing the Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority, Sagara Kotakadeniya, to initiate necessary steps to secure approvals for resuming direct flights once bilateral agreements are finalized.
Furthermore, Ambassador Ausan announced the Philippines' commitment to establish a state-of-the-art training school aimed at enhancing Sri Lanka's maritime capabilities. This initiative, in collaboration with Sri Lanka's Mahapola Maritime Academy under the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), aims to equip local seafarers with modern skills aligned with global standards.
Minister de Silva expressed gratitude for the Philippines government's consistent support to Sri Lanka across various domains in the past. He welcomed the proposed joint program with Mahapola Maritime Academy, highlighting its potential to elevate Sri Lanka's maritime education and industry standards.
