Leo Tito L. Ausan, the Philippine ambassador to Sri Lanka, has pledged full support for the country’s upcoming aviation and naval endeavours.This guarantee was given by the ambassador to Nimal Siripala de Silva, the Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Aviation, during their meeting at the latter’s office yesterday (20). The ambassador mentioned during the conversation that a sizable contingent of Filipino travellers would be travelling to Sri Lanka this year. Additionally, he said that efforts would be made to restart the long-stopped direct flights from Manila to Katunayake.
“Resuming direct flights between Manila and BIA”
Following the signing of the agreements, the minister directed Sagara Kotakadeniya, the Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority, to take the required actions to secure authorization for the restoration of direct flights between the two locations.
The ambassador added that modern technology will be used to train Sri Lankan seafarers at a training school to be established by the Philippines, a leader in the world’s maritime industry. In response, Minister de Silva stated that a cooperative programme would be established in association with the Sri Lanka Ports Authority’s Mahapola Maritime Academy (SLPA). The minister also conveyed his appreciation for the assistance that the Philippine government had previously provided to Sri Lanka on a number of occasions.Hugh Sriyal Dissanayake, the Consul General of Sri Lanka in the Philippines, and Ms. Maria Tanya, the Deputy Consul General of the Philippines, were present at the discussions.
