Shipping companies have requested the government to compensate for losses incurred as a result of the  workers protest held at the Hambantota Port.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe confirmed that the companies who had their ships forcibly held by protesters have demanded compensation.

Following discussions with the Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Ravindra Wijegunaratne at Temple Trees, Premier stated that such disruptive acts only bring the country to disrepute.

The Premier said the Navy Commander was informed of the situation adding there were issues when attempting to release the ships.

However the Prime Minister said one company has sent the government a bill amounting to $400,000 demanding compensation for the losses they incurred.

The Prime Minister raised the questione that who was going to pay the sum off further stating that other companies could also demand compensation.

Prime Minister Wickremesinghe said he informed Minister Malik Samarawickrama to contact the relevant company and all other shipping companies that were affected to look into what could be done.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said some companies are in discussions that the Hambantota Port should not be visited due to certain concerns.

The Premier  also said the government is on the brink of having the Hambantota Port being recognised as an internationally accredited Port.

Meanwhile Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe requested Navy chief to establish a permanent Naval Base within the premises of the Hambantota Port.