The proposed multi-product petroleum pipeline between India and Sri Lanka will only proceed if it is economically viable, not based on political considerations, according to Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) Chairman W.A. Rajakaruna.
Rajakaruna stated that both countries are currently assessing the project’s feasibility.
He recently participated in discussions on the matter with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
“We will move forward only if the project proves feasible. Political reasons alone will not determine our decision,” he emphasized.
The project, involving India, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), was outlined in a joint statement signed during President Dissanayake’s visit to New Delhi in December 2024.
It is part of broader energy connectivity efforts between India and Sri Lanka, which also include a proposed power grid link.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka is considering direct fuel purchases from the UAE and Qatar instead of relying on the open market tender process.
Initial discussions have taken place with the UAE embassy and further talks with a technical team from the UAE are planned.
However, no discussions on the matter occurred during the President’s recent visit to the UAE.
