Delhi, 21st February, 2024- Sri Lanka Tourism recently concluded the second leg of its inaugural Business Networking event for 2024 in India. The event started in Mumbai at the Sofitel BKC on February 9th, followed by its conclusion in Delhi at the Shangri-La on February 20th. This event was a celebration of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, highlighting its resilience and growth, and aimed to strengthen ties between Sri Lanka and India.

The Mumbai event on February 9th was inaugurated by Mr. Harin Fernando, the Honorable Minister for Tourism, Lands, Sports, and Youth Affairs. He was joined by H E Dr. Valsan Kumaran Vethody, the Consul General of Sri Lanka in Mumbai, Miss Jyoti Mayal, President of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), Mr. Jay Kantawala, Chairman of the Travel Agents Federation of India’s West India chapter, Mr. Thisum Jayasuriya, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, and Mr. Darshana Cabraal, a Board member of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau.

The Delhi event on February 20th was inaugurated by Hon. Shehan Semasinghe, the State Minister of Finance, along with HE Kshenuka Senewiratne, the High Commissioner of the High Commission of Sri Lanka in New Delhi, Mr. Nalin Parera, Managing Director of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, Mr. Krishantha Fernando, General Manager of the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, and Ms. Jyothi Mayal, President of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI).

Both events brought together over 300 participants in respective cities, including travel agents, industry leaders, and media representatives. The focus was on fostering stronger ties between Sri Lanka and India, paving the way for mutually beneficial partnerships in the tourism sector. The sharp increase in Indian tourists visiting Sri Lanka was cited as a primary factor driving the surge in tourist arrivals, with the number of Indian visitors more than doubling from 13,759 in January of the previous year to 34,399 in January 2024.

Through dialogues and presentations, the event highlighted Sri Lanka’s breath taking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, enticing travellers to return again and again. Through their innovative “You’ll Come Back for More” 360-degree campaign, Sri Lanka captured the hearts, enticing repeat customers with promises of unforgettable experiences. As the evening unfolded, participants were treated to a showcase of Sri Lanka’s diverse offerings, from pristine beaches to ancient temples, signalling a new era of tourism excellence for the island nation.

Honourable Minister’s Reflections:

“Addressing the audience, Mr. Harin Fernando, the Honourable Minister of Tourism, Lands, Sports, and Youth Affairs, expressed gratitude towards India for its steadfast support in Sri Lanka’s journey of tourism development. Reflecting on the challenges faced in the past, Minister Fernando highlighted Sri Lanka’s remarkable transformation into a middle-income nation with robust economic indicators. With tourism earnings exceeding $2 billion in 2023 and a surge in tourist arrivals, Sri Lanka stands as a beacon of resilience in the face of adversity. ‘Our challenging goal of attracting 2.5 million tourists in 2024 has been established,’ he mentioned, expressing optimism about its achievability based on the fact that over 48,000 tourists arrived in the first six days of February, with an average of over 9000 tourist arrivals at Colombo daily.” – Mr. Harin Fernando, Honourable Minister of Tourism, Lands, Sports, and Youth Affairs

H E Kshenuka Senewiratne, The High Commissioner of Sri Lanka in New Delhi ” I see this platform as a great opportunity for enhancing cooperation. We’ve witnessed a remarkable 103% increase in tourist arrivals from India, reflecting our strong historical ties. Recent discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ranil Wickremesinghe highlighted the strength of our partnership. We appreciate India’s crucial support during economic challenges. Our vision is to strengthen connectivity and accelerate cooperation in tourism, power, trade, education, and skill development, demonstrating India’s lasting commitment to Sri Lanka.”

Dr. Valsan Kumaran Vethody, the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Mumbai, echoed Minister Fernando’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of people-to-people connectivity in strengthening bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and India. With tourism serving as a bridge between cultures and communities, Dr. Vethody emphasized the need for stronger collaboration in the tourism sector to fully realize the potential of this partnership, emphasizing the integration of Sri Lankan tourism into the extensive Indian tourism market, which comprises approximately 2000 million tourists and holds significant economic value of approximately $150 billion.

“Tourism is our third largest revenue source, a significant achievement for our small island. Despite challenges, we’ve always bounced back. In 2022, we transitioned, and now offer more than just sun and beaches – with sports, culture, and spiritual, historical and more. India remains our top source. Our focus is also on a digital campaign to attract the Indian market and tailored made itinerary for one and all. With Indian hotel investments, we’re confident you’ll want to return.”

Nalin Perera, Managing Director, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau stated,

“As Chairman of the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, I am proud to highlight the growth of our Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. With world-class venues and increased accessibility, Sri Lanka has become a highly desirable location for corporate events and conferences. We now have nearly 100 flights per week from 9 Indian cities, making it easier than ever for businesses to choose Sri Lanka. Hosting the 3rd edition of the MICE expo in May this year further solidifies our position as a gateway to unparalleled experiences, supporting local economies and leaving a lasting impact. The expo will showcase the Southern Region’s development, including the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) and the Magam Ruhunupura International Conference Centre (MRICC), establishing the region as a dynamic hub for international events.”

Thisum Jayasuriya, Chairman, Sri Lanka Convention Bureau

“Travel agents are the backbone of promoting Sri Lanka as the ideal destination for Indian tourists. Through personalized service and tailored experiences, we create unforgettable journeys that enhance the overall visitor experience. Our role is pivotal in ensuring the sustainability and growth of Sri Lanka’s vibrant tourism industry.” 

Jyoti Mayal, President, Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI)

Future Outlook:

Looking ahead, Sri Lanka’s tourism sector is poised for continued growth and innovation. Ambitious targets set for tourist arrivals, coupled with plans for new infrastructure and strategic collaborations with Indian companies, underscore Sri Lanka’s commitment to becoming a premier tourist destination in the region. Moreover, initiatives to promote sustainable tourism practices and preserve the island’s rich cultural and natural heritage are integral to the long-term success of the industry.

Conclusion:

As the curtains draw on the Sri Lanka Tourism Networking Evening, the echoes of collaboration and camaraderie linger in the air. With renewed vigour and a shared vision for the future, Sri Lanka and India stand poised to embark on a journey of mutual prosperity and cultural exchange through tourism. Together, they weave a tapestry of experiences, inviting travellers from far and wide to discover the timeless allure of the Pearl of the Indian Ocean.

Key Highlights

– Sri Lanka’s tourism earnings exceeded $2 billion in 2023, showcasing resilience and growth.

– Emphasis on people-to-people connectivity to strengthen bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and India.

– Ambitious targets set for tourist arrivals, with plans for new infrastructure and collaborations with Indian companies.

– Growing appeal of Sri Lanka as a MICE destination, with state-of-the-art venues and increasing accessibility.

– Commitment to sustainable tourism practices and cultural preservation for long-term industry success.

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