Sri Lanka offers Mattala Airport lease

Sri Lanka is inviting foreign investors to take control of the Sri Lanka — Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) near the China-controlled Hambantota International Port through a 30-year build-operate-transfer (BOT) model. India is closely monitoring this opportunity, viewing it as a strategic move to expand its influence in the Indian Ocean and counter China's growing presence. The MRIA, launched in 2013 and primarily funded by India — Export-Import Bank of India, has been underutilized. The Expression of Interest (EoI) offers two independent investment tracks: aerodrome operations and landside operations, which include developing 238 hectares for MRO facilities, flying schools, logistics parks, and industrial parks. This initiative aligns with India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and Vision MAHASAGAR, and follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Sri Lanka last April to forge stronger trade and strategic relations. An earlier Indo-Russian joint venture for a similar project did not materialize due to a change in the Sri Lankan government.