Colombo Dockyard PLC, a leading shipbuilding and repair company, had the distinct honor of hosting a prestigious delegation led by Hon. Suzuki Shunichi, the Minister of Finance and Minister of State for Financial Services of Japan, on January 12, 2024. The visit not only highlighted the collaboration between Colombo Dockyard and Onomichi Dockyard Co. Ltd Japan, which began in 1993 and celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2023, but also commemorated Colombo Dockyard’s 50th anniversary since its establishment in 1974.
Following the introductory briefing presentation and discussions with senior management of Colombo Dockyard, the delegation carried out a yard tour of Colombo Dockyard’s facilities. The delegation had the opportunity to witness “Misje Flora”, 4th of the 5000 DWT Eco Bulk Carrier series being built to Norway.
Hon. Suzuki Shunichi’s visit and the presence of the entire delegation not only emphasized the importance of Colombo Dockyard as a Japanese collaborated company but also strengthened the economic and diplomatic ties between Japan and Sri Lanka. This notable event is expected to further propel Colombo Dockyard PLC’s success in the global maritime industry.
The Japanese delegation comprised Hon. Mr. Suzuki Shunichi accompanied by Mr. Suzuki Shuntaro, Secretary to the Minister; Mr. Sugano Hiroto, Secretary to the Minister; Mr. Tamagawa Eisuke, Secretary to the Minister; Mr. Ishizuka Yoshiaki, Security Officer to the Minister; Mr. Tsuchiya Akihiro, Senior Deputy Director-General, International Bureau; Mr. Ikeda Yoichiro, Director, Office of the Vice Minister of Finance for International Affairs, International Bureau; Mr. Sugiura Tatsuya, Director for Strategy and Coordination, Planning and Administration Division, International Bureau; Mr. Torizawa Koyu, Section Chief, Development Policy Division, International Bureau; Mr. Nakashoji Kazuya, Section Chief, Office of Development Finance, International Bureau; and Ms. Akiyama Tatae, Interpreter.
Representing the Japanese Embassy in Sri Lanka were H.E. Mr. Mizukoshi Hideaki, Ambassador of Japan; Mr. Murakami Takashi, First Secretary; Mr. Onozato Tsuyoshi, Second Secretary; and Ms. Duleesha Hettiarachchi, Senior Economic Cooperation Officer.
From Colombo Dockyard PLC, key figures present included Mr. Sarath De Costa, Vice Chairman; Mr. Thimira S. Godakumbura, Managing Director/CEO; Mr. J. Furukawa, Director; Mr. S. Nozaki, Technical Advisor/Alternate Director; and Mr. Gihan Ravinatha, General Manager (Finance)/CFO, Mr. Vajira Rathnayake, General Manager (SCM); Dr. Mangala De Silva, General Manger (HRD &A) and Mr. Prabath Abeysinghe, General Manager (Yard Development).
