US Lanka talks on “MegaPorts”

The United States and Sri Lanka will soon enter discussions regarding the island's participation in "MegaPorts," a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) initiative to curb the illicit movement of radioactive materials worldwide. The United States and Sri Lanka will soon enter discussions regarding the island's participation in "MegaPorts," a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) initiative to curb the illicit movement of radioactive materials worldwide. The US Embassy says DOE's representatives attached to the "MegaPorts" initiative are shortly due to visit Colombo to discuss the program with Sri Lankan officials.

Through "MegaPorts," DOE's National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) will cooperate with large seaports worldwide to detect the illicit movement of radioactive materials.

These ports provide opportunities for nuclear smugglers and terrorists to use shipping networks for illicit purposes.

They also provide law enforcement officials with an opportunity to pre-screen most of the cargo that enters the world trade system for weapons of mass destruction, and for nuclear and other radioactive materials.

Speaking of "Megaports," U.S. Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham said: "We must address the threat of te