BRUSSELS: A senior delegation from the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) has completed a significant two-day fact-finding mission to the Port of Antwerp-Bruges in Belgium, marking a fresh chapter in port sector relations between Sri Lanka and Belgium. The visit, held on 23 and 24 June 2025, was organised by the Sri Lanka Embassy in Belgium in partnership with Port of Antwerp-Bruges International (PoABI), as part of ongoing efforts to build a robust dialogue between the two maritime hubs.
The delegation, comprising T. K. G. L. Hemchandra, Deputy Harbour Master of Trincomalee, along with Sriyantha Arampath and H. B. A. Subhashini, represented the SLPA in a series of high-level meetings and tours. Their itinerary included in-depth discussions with PoABI’s senior management and the Antwerp/Flanders Port Training Center (APEC). Luc Arnouts, Vice President of International Relations & Networks at Antwerp-Bruges Port Authority, was among the prominent figures who engaged with the Sri Lankan officials.
Central to the discussions was the initiation of talks on a prospective Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aimed at fostering collaboration across multiple fronts. Areas identified for cooperation include the exchange of information and knowledge, reciprocal visits, sharing of best practices, logistical partnerships, technical expertise transfer, and investment cooperation. Both sides also expressed keen interest in supporting initiatives related to port digitalisation and innovation.
As part of the comprehensive programme, the SLPA team toured the DP World Antwerp Gateway terminal, situated on the left bank of the Scheldt River. The visit provided first-hand insights into advanced automation in terminal operations. The delegation also had an opportunity to explore the CMB TECH Hydrogen Refueling Station, underscoring the port’s commitment to sustainable and innovative energy solutions.
Referring to the collaborative prospects, Luc Arnouts noted, “Both sides initiated talks on a prospective Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering collaborations in key areas such as information & knowledge exchange, reciprocal visits, sharing of best practices, logistic cooperation, exchange of technical expertise & investment cooperation and support initiatives in port digitalization and innovation.”
The two-day engagement proved invaluable for the SLPA representatives, offering a thorough understanding of the operational dynamics and technological advancements at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, currently ranked as Europe’s second largest port. The visit also provided a platform for meaningful exchanges of ideas, paving the way for a mutually beneficial partnership.
Key stakeholders present during the meetings and site inspections included Achille Sobry, Associate Manager-Regional Lead Indian Subcontinent at PoABI; Ken Houtevelts, APEC Training Executive-Key Account Indian Subcontinent; Thavishya Mullegamgoda, Minister Commercial of the Embassy; and Monique De Decker-Deprez, Honorary Consul for Sri Lanka in Antwerp.
With this visit, both countries have set the stage for a deeper and more dynamic engagement in the maritime sector, signalling promising developments for the ports of Colombo and Antwerp-Bruges.
