The U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka, through the Department of Commerce’s Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP), hosted a three-day workshop in Colombo from September 8–10, aimed at strengthening Sri Lanka’s legal and institutional capacity in managing ports and public–private partnerships (PPPs).
The specialized training brought together legal experts from the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and the Attorney General’s Department, focusing on concession law — the legal framework that governs agreements between governments and private sector entities.
The program emphasized transparency, accountability, and protecting public interest in future infrastructure projects.
U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung highlighted the significance of the initiative, stating that PPPs play a vital role in advancing major infrastructure development while ensuring Sri Lanka retains its sovereignty.
“What we build together today is a foundation for tomorrow’s shared security,” she said, underscoring the strategic cooperation between the U.S. and Sri Lanka in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific.
The workshop forms part of a broader U.S. effort to support institutional development in Sri Lanka and encourage fair, rules-based commercial practices.
With a particular focus on the Port of Colombo — a key regional hub — the initiative also aims to enhance investor confidence and support sustainable economic growth.
The three-part training series covered global best practices in ports law and PPPs, detailed analysis of international concession models, and a clause-by-clause review of Sri Lanka’s existing legal frameworks, offering practical recommendations for reform.
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