Sri Lanka Exposition at OTDYKH/LEISURE International Tourism Exhibition, Moscow

The official closing ceremony of the 15th OTDYKH / LEISURE International Tourism Exhibition, held since 2001 at Moscow’s Expocentre, was held on 13 September.  With 44 participant countries in 2018, LEISURE has become one of two Moscow’s largest international tourism fairs. Sri Lanka’s prominent participation was under the auspices of Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) in coordination with the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Moscow. This year, Sri Lanka’s national pavilion gathered 14 major stakeholders of Sri Lankan travel market, including destination management companies and hoteliers, offering comprehensive services for demanding customers ranging from larger tourist groups to clients seeking customised luxury tours or adventure escapades, to discover the country’s pristine nature and rich culture.

The artwork of Architect and Designer of the impressive Sri Lanka pavilion Sanath Abeysekera, the tradition of lighting the ceremonial oil lamp by Sri Lankan Ambassador to the Russian Federation Dr. Dayan Jayatilleka and Madame Sanja Jayatilleka to send their best wishes to the exhibition participants, and the outstanding performance of the renowned Sri Lanka Army dancing troupe, attracted the attention of many people and other participants of the Exhibition.

Ambassador Dr. Dayan Jayatilleka and Madame Sanja Jayatilleka were welcomed at the Expocentre by SLTPB Assistant Director (Russia & CIS) Madusha Samurdi, and Embassy of Sri Lanka in Moscow Second Secretary (Commerce) Chathurika Perera on Day 1 of the exhibition.

Ambassador Dr. Dayan Jayatilleka addressed his speech to Sri Lankan travel agencies and their Russian representatives and partners, emphasising the outstanding role of cooperation in the relationship between Sri Lanka and Russia in the area of tourism.