- No spl. talks with China
While Sri Lanka is actively seeking international assistance to develop its nuclear power sector by opening investment opportunities to interested countries, the Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Board (SLAEB) stated that it would not favour any country in the process of establishing nuclear power plants.
Sri Lanka's interest in nuclear energy development is driven by the need to diversify its energy sources and enhance energy security. The Government aims to obtain the support of international expertise and investment to build a robust nuclear power infrastructure and this initiative is part of a broader strategy to meet the country's growing energy demands sustainably.
Speaking to The Daily Morning yesterday (13), the SLAEB Chairperson Prof. S.R.D. Rosa noted that the Government is committed to adhering strictly to prescribed procedures in attracting and securing investments for this purpose. He said that an expression of interest has been called, and that several countries have already expressed their willingness to invest in developing Sri Lanka's nuclear energy sector. He emphasised that there is no favouritism in the investment process.
"The Government would follow the standard procedures and it would not favour any country," Prof. Rosa stated.
The Daily Morning inquired as to whether discussions have been held with China, given its status as one of the world's largest nuclear powers and a long-term ally of Sri Lanka. Prof. Rosa clarified that although China is indeed emerging as a significant global nuclear power and though Sri Lanka has collaborated with China in the past, no specific discussions have been conducted regarding the establishment of nuclear power plants.
"China is emerging as the world's largest nuclear power but no special discussion has been held in this regard. We have been working with China for a long time to develop the particular sector, but no special discussions have been held regarding the establishment of nuclear power plants," he said.
He also noted that the SLAEB is committed to ensuring transparency and fairness in the investment process, providing a level playing field for all interested parties. By inviting global participation, Sri Lanka hopes to attract the necessary technological expertise and financial support to successfully develop its nuclear power capabilities.