Hill country a ‘huge potential for tourism’ says British High Commissioner

Thursday, 19 April 2012 00:49 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka John Rankin concluded a two-day official visit to the Hill Country.

The British High Commissioner used the opportunity to visit the Court Lodge Tea factory in Kandapola, run by UK-owned Finlays, and visited some of the houses of the estate workers.

Commenting at the end of visit Rankin said, “I am very pleased to have visited this beautiful part of the country. It is important that we understand all parts of Sri Lanka. The Central Region is one of mixed ethic representation, where communities co-exist together. Consumers in Britain recognise the quality of Sri Lankan tea and many tourists visiting the country want to see how and where their morning beverage is made. There is huge potential for tourism here.

I wanted to visit the tea estates to understand for myself the importance of the tea industry. Although it faces challenges, I am confident that the rich quality of Ceylon tea will continue to ensure demand. The eco-friendly operation of Finlays Tea in support of the Rain Forest Alliance is an excellent example of modern development of the industry. I was also pleased to meet estate workers, see their living conditions and understand the challenges they face.”

In Nuwara Eliya the High Commissioner met members of several political parties as well as representatives of community based organisations. He did a brief city tour in Nuwara Eliya including a visit to one of the oldest post offices in Sri Lanka. In Kandy he met the Governor of Central Province Tikiri Kobbekaduwa, The DIG of Central Province Ambanwela, called on the senior members of the Chamber of Commerce and visited the Garrison Cemetery.