Sri Lanka's Minister of Ports and Shipping Arjuna Ranatunga said that Sri Lanka will achieve many benefits from the conference to be hosted in Colombo. He further said that the conference will focus on a message to the world that Indian subcontinent will play a key role in trade and maritime activates of the world and Sri Lanka is ready to service the demand.

Addressing a media conference, the Minister pointed out that all necessary support will be extended to uplift the maritime industry.

Further expressing views at the news conference, Minister Arjuna Ranatunge said that plans are afoot to introduce a National Maritime Policy.

The Minister said that awareness programs will be held throughout the island along with the forum to highlight the contribution to the economy from ports and shipping.

The website for the 2015 International Maritime Conference was also launched on this occasion. Present at the news briefing was Chairman of the Ports Authority of Sri Lanka Lakdas Panagoda.

Over 20 world class speakers from UNCTAD, FMC, GSF, Drewry, IMB/ICC, Maersk, NYK, MSC, MOL Gac, APM, PSA and speakers from India and regional ports will address the CIMC.

Topics related to the maritime industry with a focus on the Indian subcontinent and global shipping industry including ports, terminals, sectorial businesses of cargo such as container, Ro/Ro, bulk, global freight market, cruise shipping, regulatory developments, hub strategies bunkering and green shipping will be addressed.

The event is supported by the government, private and public sector institutions and associations along with international and local chambers and many international organizations and institutions related to the industry.