“Fuss over Colombo Port East Container Terminal’
With reference to the above article appearing in last week’s Business Times, there is no reason or logic why we should sell a share of the port to a country or a shipping company that is generating most of the business/ transshipment business in the Port of Colombo.
This logic comes from our illiterate politicians and professionals on the payroll of various parties.
Let me cite an example. Most of the business in Jebel Ali Port is generated by Maersk and MSC, major shipping lines of the world. They asked for a share of the port, but this request was not acceded by UAE.
It is because ports are national assets and profitable ventures.
Similarly the Port of Singapore is owned by Taemsek Holdings which is a Singapore Government entity.
India’s leading port in Bombay is managed by a Singapore Port Operator and a Dubai Port operator. India does not have much expertise in port management unlike other hub port countries. Hence, I don’t see any expertise coming. However, in another industry where India’s expertise is strong like IT will justify Indian investment as welcoming.
Politicians should use their intelligence in taking strategic decisions and not just be a ‘copycat’ or a follower of theories emanating from business schools.
Priyantha Perera (via email)