President stresses better infrastructure key for tourism growth

Tuesday, 18 March 2025 03:20 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

President Anura Kumara Disanayake yesterday called for urgent improvements in infrastructure and services to accommodate the growing number of tourists visiting the country.

He issued these instructions during a discussion held at the Presidential Secretariat with officials from the Tourism Ministry.

Noting that the tourism industry is making significant strides, Disanayake said the country must ensure that the necessary facilities and services are in place to accommodate the growing number of visitors.

Against this backdrop, the President instructed authorities to prioritise infrastructure development and take immediate action.

With Sri Lanka targeting 3 million tourist arrivals this year, the discussion focused on optimising the use of allocated resources to develop essential infrastructure.

Acknowledging the country’s increasing global recognition as a prime travel destination, he emphasised the necessity of ensuring high-quality facilities to sustain and enhance this momentum.

Officials briefed the President on the progress of ongoing projects and outlined plans to enhance the tourism experience in Sri Lanka.

The President underscored the importance of aligning these projects with the broader goal of making Sri Lanka a more tourist-friendly destination.

Foreign Affairs, Tourism and Foreign Employment Minister Vijitha Herath, Tourism Deputy Minister Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe, Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Senior Additional Secretary to the President Roshan Gamage, Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Ministry Secretary Aruni Ranaraja, along with a group of senior officials from the Tourism Ministry, attended this discussion.