Minister of Energy, Kumara Jayakody, reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to expanding its energy partnership with China, describing China as a “close friend” and outlining ambitious plans for collaboration across petroleum and renewable energy projects.
He was speaking at an event to mark Sinopec’s first “Clean Sri Lanka” Open Day at the newly upgraded fuel station in Nawala.
Minister Jayakody outlined Sri Lanka’s eagerness to accelerate key energy projects in cooperation with Chinese partners.
“We have a refinery project in Hambantota, and we are in a hurry to launch this project. China is also very keen,” he said.
We also wish to launch projects in the electricity sector, especially solar and wind power. We are very likely to call for the support of China in these sectors,” Jayakody said.
The Minister said that Sri Lanka is particularly interested in leveraging China’s advancements in battery storage technology to improve the reliability and sustainability of its electricity sector. “We like to have partnerships to develop these areas,” he said, pointing to a broader vision of modernising the nation’s energy infrastructure with Chinese expertise.
The minister said that the Government is launching a refinery project in Sapugaskanda. “We are planning to call for EOIs soon,” he said. – RK
