In a significant display of cooperation and partnership, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi is set to inaugurate several major water and energy projects during his upcoming visit to Sri Lanka. Among these projects, the spotlight shines on the Uma Oya Multipurpose Project, a testament to engineering prowess and collaborative effort between the two nations.
The Uma Oya Multipurpose Project, situated in the southeastern region of Sri Lanka, stands as a symbol of technical excellence and strategic collaboration. Comprising two dams, Dyraaba and Puhulpola, along with a 25-kilometer water transmission tunnel, the project is poised to enhance irrigation across 5000 acres of agricultural land. Additionally, it boasts the capability to transfer 145 million cubic meters of water annually while generating a significant 290 GW/h of power, thanks to two hydroelectric power plants, each with a capacity of 60 megawatts.
What sets the Uma Oya project apart is its intricate and diverse components, reflecting a comprehensive approach to addressing multiple developmental needs. It represents a pinnacle achievement for Iranian companies operating in Sri Lanka and stands as one of the largest endeavors undertaken by Iranian contractors abroad.
The inauguration of the Uma Oya project comes as the culmination of strengthened ties between Iran and Sri Lanka. A pivotal moment in this trajectory occurred in August 2023, when Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry visited Tehran, engaging in fruitful discussions with his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amir Abdollahian. Their meeting marked a turning point in bilateral relations, underscored by mutual commitments to enhance cooperation across various sectors.
During the visit, discussions spanned a wide array of topics, including regional collaboration, trade, tourism, science, and culture. Both sides expressed eagerness to not only explore new avenues of cooperation but also to diligently implement existing agreements. The exchange also touched upon humanitarian issues, with talks revolving around the possibility of prisoner exchanges, reflecting a commitment to fostering goodwill and understanding.
Emphasizing the significance of Asian solidarity, Minister Amir Abdollahian reiterated Iran’s dedication to fostering amicable relations with its regional counterparts. He expressed hope for constructive collaboration among Asian nations, underlining the potential for shared prosperity and mutual benefit.
Meanwhile, Sabry highlighted the enduring friendship between Sri Lanka and Iran, signaling a desire to further strengthen economic ties, including Sri Lanka’s potential re-entry into the Iranian tea market.
As President Raisi prepares to inaugurate the Uma Oya project, it symbolizes not only a feat of engineering but also a beacon of cooperation and friendship between Iran and Sri Lanka. In an increasingly interconnected world, such partnerships serve as exemplars of how nations can come together to address shared challenges and achieve collective progress.
