Sri Lanka to Entrust China-Built Airport to India-Russia Consortium

02 May 2024 CW Team

Sri Lanka is set to hand over the management of the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, built by China, to a consortium consisting of companies from India and Russia. This decision marks a significant development in the geopolitical landscape of the region, signalling a shift in strategic alliances and economic partnerships.

The move to entrust the management of the airport to an India-Russia consortium reflects Sri Lanka's efforts to diversify its international partnerships and reduce dependency on any single country. It also signifies a desire to balance regional influences and leverage the expertise and resources of multiple nations for infrastructure development.

The decision comes amid growing concerns over the mounting debt burden associated with Chinese-funded projects in Sri Lanka. By involving companies from India and Russia in the management of the airport, Sri Lanka aims to foster greater transparency, accountability, and sustainable development practices in its infrastructure projects.

The India-Russia consortium is expected to bring expertise in airport management, technology, and investment to enhance the operational efficiency and commercial viability of the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport. This partnership underscores the potential for collaboration among regional powers to promote economic growth and stability in South Asia.

The handover of the airport management to the India-Russia consortium represents a strategic manoeuvre by Sri Lanka to balance competing interests and strengthen its position in the evolving geopolitical landscape of the Indian Ocean region. It also highlights the growing influence of regional players in shaping infrastructure development and connectivity initiatives in South Asia.

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