Governors’ fresh inputs sought to boost tourism in provinces

Saturday, 25 January 2020 00:10 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Tourism and Aviation Minister Prasanna Ranatunga (third from right) addresses the first of its kind meeting with Governors yesterday. Others from left are Uva Province Governor Raja Collure, Southern Province Governor Willy Gamage, Tourism and Aviation State Minister Arundika Fernando, Sabaragamuwa Province Governor Tikiri Kobbekaduwa, and North Central Province Governor Tissa Vitharana – Pic by Ruwan Walpola

By Charumini de Silva

The Government yesterday sought Governors’ fresh inputs to boost tourism in the provinces and thereby enhance socio-economic development.

The first-ever national initiative for cooperation between Sri Lanka Tourism and Provincial Councils was chaired by Tourism and Aviation Services Minister Prasanna Ranatunga along with State Tourism Minister Arundhika Fernando and four Governors yesterday.

Speaking at the event Minister Ranatunga said the Government intended to develop the existing tourist hotspots, while identifying new attractions covering all provinces in the country.

The Governors were requested to submit proposals for the consideration within two weeks to the newly-appointed high-level multi-State agency comprised Tourism Task Force.

“To reach a $10 billion industry by 2025, it is important to have coordination between all Provincial Councils and work towards a target-oriented program,” he added.

Minister Ranatunga also called on all the Provincial Council officers to come up with new, practical and economically-viable project proposals that could be implemented after being vetted by the Tourism Task Force.

State Minister Fernando pointed out that there was ample land available for projects, but to attract investors it was imperative to have viable proposals. He also said they hoped to appoint a Director at each Provincial Council to coordinate and monitor the progress of the initiative.

Minister Ranatunga said State Minister will chair the follow up meetings monthly with Sri Lanka Tourism and Provincial Council officials.

The Governors also outlined the current status and proposed suggestions for the way forward.