Cabinet approves global Tourism Development Project

Cabinet yesterday approved the Global Level Tourism Development Project, presented by Tourism Development and Christian Cultural Affairs John Amaratunga, the Government Information Department said.

The Government also approved awarding contracts to carry out digital advertising programs to promote Sri Lanka as a preferred destination in India and China this week. Accordingly, the campaigns will be carried out by Havas Media India Ltd. in India, and Ionic Media Institution in China. The decision was approved, following recommendations by the Cabinet-appointed Standing Procurement Committee and Procurement Appeal Board.

Last month, the Government approved awarding the contract for the digital promotional campaign to position Sri Lanka as a preferred destination in the United Kingdom, Germany, and France. However, the campaign launch is being delayed due to an administrative hold up in issuing the award letters to the winning bidders, Daily FT learnt.

According to sources, the officials responsible for the subject in the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) has been delaying the issuing of award letters, claiming room for more negotiations.

However, Ministry Secretary V. Sivagnanasothy has issued instructions to issue the award letters immediately. It was also learnt that the progress of the much-awaited digital campaign is being closely monitored by the Prime Minister Office as well.