Sri Lanka and India have moved closer to finalising proposed agreements for the development of Kankesanthurai Port in Northern Sri Lanka, following discussions aimed at resolving outstanding issues in the project.
A special discussion was held between Sri Lankan and Indian officials to expedite the finalisation of the proposed Memorandums of Understanding for the port development project.
The talks were held under the leadership of Minister of Energy, Ports and Civil Aviation Anura Karunathilaka.
Indian Deputy High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Maitrey Kulkarni and an Indian delegation participated in the discussions.
According to the Sri Lankan Government, the two sides discussed outstanding issues relating to the proposed agreements and reached agreement on several key matters.
The discussions also included proposals to establish a Joint Steering Committee and a Technical Committee to support implementation and coordination of the project.
The Indian side is expected to take the progress made during the discussions back for consideration as part of the process towards a final decision.
The proposed Kankesanthurai Port Development Project is intended to strengthen both passenger and cargo transport links between Sri Lanka and India.
It is also expected to improve maritime connectivity between India and Northern Sri Lanka.
The project has been under discussion for some time.
Following an inspection of the existing condition of Kankesanthurai Port in February 2026, Minister Karunathilaka instructed Ministry and Sri Lanka Ports Authority officials to accelerate preparations required for the project.
The latest discussions represent further progress towards formalising the proposed arrangements.
However, the proposed MoUs have not yet been signed.
The discussions should therefore not be interpreted as meaning that a final agreement has been concluded or that construction under the proposed development project has begun.