Shipping Arabia, October 16, 2026 – The Suez Canal Authority (SCA) and Sri Lanka have discussed opportunities to strengthen maritime cooperation with Sri Lanka across shipbuilding, port operations, marine construction, logistics and specialized training. The discussions also covered potential partnerships between SCA-affiliated companies and Sri Lankan maritime businesses, alongside investment opportunities in the Suez Canal region.
SCA Chairman Adm. Ossama Rabiee met with Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Egypt, Sisira Senavirathne, on October 7 at the authority’s Pilotage Building in Ismailia. The meeting focused on expanding bilateral cooperation and exchanging expertise in areas of mutual interest.
Rabiee welcomed the growing ties between Egypt and Sri Lanka, noting that both countries share a strong interest in maritime affairs. He said this common focus creates opportunities for collaboration in maritime industries, logistics, training and other related activities.
Expanding Maritime Cooperation With Sri Lanka
During the meeting, Rabiee confirmed that the SCA’s affiliated companies and shipyards are ready to explore cooperation with Sri Lankan maritime companies and institutions. Potential areas include marine construction, port works, the construction of different types of marine vessels and units, fishing activities and logistics services.
The SCA chairman also highlighted the capabilities of the authority’s Maritime Training and Simulation Academy. He identified maritime training and specialized consultancy services as additional areas where Egyptian and Sri Lankan organizations could exchange expertise and develop cooperation.
These opportunities form part of wider discussions aimed at strengthening institutional and commercial links between the two countries’ maritime sectors. The talks addressed both industrial activities and services supporting maritime operations.
Suez Canal Strategy Focuses on Maritime Industries and Logistics
Rabiee outlined the SCA’s strategy to diversify revenue sources and improve the canal’s competitiveness. He said the authority has significantly expanded its activities and services as part of an integrated approach to developing its maritime business.
The strategy focuses on localizing maritime industries while developing and modernizing marine and logistics services. According to Rabiee, these initiatives aim to broaden the authority’s activities and strengthen the range of services available within the Suez Canal sector.
He also addressed the geopolitical challenges affecting maritime trade in the region. The SCA continues to engage with stakeholders across the shipping industry to coordinate efforts and reduce the impact of regional tensions on trade passing through the canal.
Rabiee emphasized that these efforts also support the continuity of global supply chains. Maintaining communication and cooperation with the maritime community remains part of the authority’s approach to addressing current challenges.
Sri Lanka Eyes Investment Opportunities and Maritime Partnerships
Ambassador Senavirathne expressed appreciation for Egypt’s efforts to manage the Suez Canal efficiently despite the challenges affecting the region. He also acknowledged the canal’s important role in facilitating international maritime trade.
The ambassador emphasized Sri Lanka’s interest in opening new channels for maritime cooperation and exchanging expertise with Egyptian institutions and businesses. He also highlighted his country’s interest in exploring investment opportunities associated with development projects in the Suez Canal region.
Senavirathne pointed to Egypt’s strategic geographical location and developing infrastructure as factors supporting its investment attractiveness. He noted that these advantages contribute to the country’s important position in global trade.
As part of efforts to strengthen business connections, the ambassador invited the SCA and its affiliated companies and shipyards to participate in Sri Lanka Expo 2027, scheduled for mid-January 2027.
The exhibition, focused on exports, international trade and industry, was presented as an opportunity for Egyptian and Sri Lankan companies to establish partnerships and exchange technical and commercial expertise.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Rabiee presented the Suez Canal Shield to the Sri Lankan ambassador. He also invited Senavirathne to take a maritime tour of the New Suez Canal and visit the Suez Canal Museum to learn more about the canal’s development achievements.
Source: Suez Canal Authority
