Wednesday Nov 04, 2026
Wednesday Nov 04, 2026
Wednesday, 4 November 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa
The Government yesterday defended its decision to provide over Rs. 104 million in sponsorship for the 63rd Asian Broadcasting Union (ABU) General Assembly in Colombo, citing its potential to generate international publicity and strengthen Sri Lanka’s positioning as a tourism and MICE destination.
Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa clarified that the sponsorship was channelled through the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), as part of its mandate to promote the country internationally, and did not constitute a direct allocation from the Treasury.
Responding to questions at the weekly post-Cabinet media briefing, he said the Bureau financed the sponsorship through funds generated from tourism-related levies, stressing that supporting international events with potential tourism promotional benefits fell within its remit.
He explained that the SLTPB regularly evaluates opportunities to support events and programs capable of strengthening the tourism industry, with sponsorship proposals assessed by its board, which includes representatives from the tourism and hospitality sectors.
On 2 November, in a media release issued by Sri Lanka Tourism noted that the ABU General Assembly was expected to generate promotional media value exceeding Rs. 250 million through international exposure.
The Bureau described the gathering as an opportunity to position Sri Lanka not only as a leisure destination, but also as a venue for international conferences and major events, an increasingly important segment of the country’s tourism development strategy.
The Spokesperson, who is also the Mass Media Minister clarified that the selection of MTV Channel Ltd., as the host broadcaster was made by the ABU and not by the Government.
The Colombo gathering brought together around 350 international delegates representing leading media organisations, providing Sri Lanka with an opportunity to showcase its tourism attractions and enhance its international visibility.
According to Dr. Jayatissa, the ABU has around 225 member organisations across 66 countries, making the assembly a significant international platform for exposure.
In addition, queries were also raised over the approval process, including whether the sponsorship proposal had initially been declined by the SLTPB and the rationale for seeking Cabinet approval.
Dr. Jayatissa said Cabinet approval was required given the value of the sponsorship, while reiterating that the SLTPB had the authority to assess and support tourism promotion opportunities.
The 63rd ABU General Assembly was held in Colombo from 30 October to 3 November 2026.
