Srilanka, March 7 -- The government aims to convert Mattala Mahinda Rajapaksa International Airport into a specialized aircraft repair center, Minister Bimal Ratnayake announced in Parliament today (07).

Speaking during the committee stage debate on the budget, the Minister emphasized that the government is seeking a suitable foreign partner to collaborate on making the airport a profitable venture.

"The Mattala Airport was constructed at a cost of Rs. 36.5 billion, yet it has incurred a total loss of Rs. 38.5 billion over the past five years," he stated.

Minister Ratnayake reaffirmed the government's commitment to transforming the facility into a revenue-generating enterprise through strategic partnerships and sustainable operations....