Japan ready to resume suspended official development assistance projects

INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
Dr
process, noting that it has paved the way for the resumption of Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects.These projects,
which include several initiatives that were suspended last period, are now poised to restart, signaling a renewed phase of cooperation and
expedited success of the debt restructuring agreements
remarkable turnaround for Sri Lanka.The high-level Japanese delegation, comprising representatives from the housing, construction, and urban
sectors, met with President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the Presidential Secretariat last morning (18).During the meeting, Dr
Official Development Assistance (ODA), including those previously suspended, are set to resume.The discussion also focused on new investment
opportunities in Sri Lanka, emphasizing the potential for enhanced cooperation between the two nations
various sectors, including education and agricultural modernization
The President stressed the importance of resuming stalled projects under Japanese cooperation to further strengthen bilateral
relations.Additionally, President Wickremesinghe highlighted the critical role of the Colombo Dockyard, underscoring its significance as a
key institution in Sri Lanka s maritime and industrial landscape.The Japanese delegation noted that several projects that are currently
suspended, including the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) Development Project, the Colombo Port Eastern Terminal Development
Project, the Central Expressway Construction and the Digital Broadcasting Project, can be promptly restarted.Additionally, the delegation
highlighted the potential to resume the Light Railway Transit (LRT), which was halted by the previous government
They are actively assessing locations to re-implement this project, recognizing its significant potential to alleviate traffic congestion in
Colombo city.Both sides emphasized the significance of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in executing housing for low-income earners and
other urban development projects
It was also highlighted that the Government of Sri Lanka is committed to promoting environmentally friendly projects and renewable energy in
line with its policies and international agreements.The Japanese delegation expressed their willingness to the President to recruit Sri
This initiative aims to improve the electricity supply sector in Japan
The delegation also highlighted the Joint Credit Mechanism (JCM), which encompasses projects designed to promote environmental
sustainability by utilizing advanced Japanese technology to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.--PMD--