The World Bank is assisting in boosting the tourism industry in Sri Lanka which has collapsed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Accordingly, the World Bank has focused on supporting for the development of strategic plans in the formulation of the National Tourism Policy, and introduction of the Sustainable Tourism Zones in Sri Lanka to the newly launched mobile app for tourists.
This was emphasized during a discussion between the World Bank Representative,Mrs. Chiyo Kanda and Tourism Minister, Hon. Prasanna Ranatunga on the 7th May. Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism, Mr. S. Hettiarachchi, and Chairperson of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, Mrs. Kimali Fernando and Director General, Mrs.Dhammika Wijesinghe were also present at the discussion.
Steps have already begun on formulating the country's national tourism policy. Strategic plans have also been identified for this purpose. Minister of Tourism, Hon. Prasanna Ranatunga stated that he hopes to expedite the formulation of this national tourism policy. It is planned to introduce a mobile app for tourists visiting the country and it is in the final stages of development. Hon.Minister, Prasanna Ranatunga said that Sigiriya and Yala tourism zones are expected to be developed as sustainable tourism zones under the Sustainable Tourism Destination Promotion Program.
The World Bank is ready to extend its continued support to the development of Sri Lanka's tourism industry and expressed its appreciation for the Government's interest in the tourism industry in the face of the ongoing Covid pandemic.
Hon.Minister of Tourism, Prasanna Ranatunga further stated that the present government intends to develop the tourism industry even more than it was before the Covid pandemic hit the country. The Minister pointed out that the Government is committed for this purpose and expressed his gratitude to the World Bank Representative for providing the necessary assistance.
