To stimulate tourism and boost its economy, the Sri Lankan cabinet has granted approval for a free visa program for travellers from seven countries. These countries include India, China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand. The initiative, which commenced as a pilot project, has immediate effect and will be in operation until March 31.
Minister’s Vision: The Push for Increased Tourist Arrivals
Sri Lanka’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ali Sabry, expressed optimism about the impact of this initiative on the country’s tourism sector. He believes that this move will not only attract more tourists but also significantly increase the number of tourist arrivals over the years. The ministry is setting its sights on reaching a target of five million tourists in the coming years.
A Win-Win for Travelers and Sri Lanka
One of the key advantages of this initiative is the convenience it offers to travellers. By providing free visas to tourists from these seven countries, Sri Lanka aims to reduce both the financial and time-related burdens associated with obtaining visas. This change is expected to make Sri Lanka an even more attractive destination for travellers.
Collaborative Effort: A Proposal for Free Tourist Visas
The proposal for free tourist visas for travellers from these seven countries was presented during a Cabinet meeting, underscoring the collaborative effort behind this decision. Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, along with Tourism and Lands Minister Harin Fernando, Minister of Public Security Tiran Alles, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry, jointly presented the cabinet paper.
Embracing Technology: E-Ticketing for Tourist Sites
In addition to the free visa program, the Sri Lankan Cabinet is exploring ways to enhance the tourism experience in the country. They have proposed the introduction of an e-ticketing system for most of the tourist sites in Sri Lanka in the near future. This technological advancement is expected to further streamline and enhance the tourism sector, providing a seamless experience for both local and international visitors.
This initiative is a testament to Sri Lanka’s commitment to making the country an attractive and accessible destination for tourists, offering a glimpse of the island nation’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.
