Friday Nov 15, 2024
Friday Nov 15, 2024
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SJB and Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa
The main Opposition party, Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), on Wednesday unveiled its comprehensive National Tourism and Aviation Policies at the National Tourism and Aviation Summit.
The event was held under the patronage of SJB leader and Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa and attended by industry champions and well-wishers.
The policy document, titled ‘Tourism Policy for Sri Lanka: A Blueprint for Sust-ainable and Inclusive Growth’, outlines a strategic framework designed to foster a dynamic and sustainable tourism industry.
It highlights inter-ministerial coordination, community-based tourism and sustainable practices, while also focusing on destination marketing and public-private partnerships (PPPs).
The blueprint also calls for reforms in visa procedures and regulations, aiming to position Sri Lanka as a leader in sustainable tourism in Asia.
Addressing the Summit, Premadasa highlighted the vital role of tourism as a key industry that draws foreign exchange, creates employment, investments and its significant contribution to the economic development of the country.
He stressed the need for innovative approaches, leveraging technology, and creating a safe and secure environment in Sri Lanka to boost confidence among international travellers.
Premadasa underscored that the SJB’s policy framework aims to remove bureaucratic hurdles and attract foreign direct investment (FDI) into the sector.
“We will put a stop to corruption and introduce one-stop-shop (OSS) systems to improve the investment climate in the country,” he stated, adding that the party plans to remove unnecessary barriers and facilitate investment opportunities for both local and international investors.
Criticising the current state of the tourism industry, Premadasa pointed out that it operates in silos, lacking a central coordination mechanism.
He assured the SJB under its administration will introduce a ‘functioning central nervous system’ in governmental decision-making processes to ensure that all stakeholders, from large-scale businesses to grassroots groups, are included in the industry’s development.
“I pledge that under SJB leadership, we will not allow any decisions to be made based on one person’s ad-hoc agenda. From 22 September onwards, such dictatorial policies will be abolished,” he asserted.
He said SJB’s vision is to make Sri Lanka a leading destination for sustainable tourism in Asia, benefiting local communities and preserving the environment, whilst providing visitors with unique and memorable experiences.
“This is a living document,” Premadasa said, noting that it would evolve based on regular dialogue with stakeholders.
SJB MP Eran Wickramaratne, who also spoke at the summit, described the policy as a strategic blueprint integrating current analyses, objectives and actionable plans into a cohesive framework.
He stated that the policy provides stability and predictability, enhancing investor confidence and driving sustainable initiatives.
“Successful implementation requires collaboration from all stakeholders—Government, businesses, communities and tourists,” Wickramaratne said, stressing the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing global environment.
After the official launch ceremony, a panel discussion took place with industry experts, including: Former Sri Lankan Cricketer Tillakaratne Dilshan, former Sri Lanka Convention Bureau Director General Dr. Vipula Wanigasekera, former Director General of Civil Aviation and Chief Executive
Officer the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka H.M.C. Nimalsiri, SJB MP Eran Wickramaratne, AASL Vice Chairman Capt. Milinda Ratnayake, The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL) past President Anura Lokuhetty and former Sri Lankan Cricket Captain and Minister Arjuna Ranatunga. The session was moderated by Kusum Wijetilleke.
