Embassy in Sweden hosts Travel Trade and Media Networking Session on Sri Lanka

Tuesday, 6 January 2026 01:16 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Sri Lanka Embassy in Sweden hosted a Travel Trade and Media Networking Session on 18 December 2025 at the Embassy premises, bringing together over 35 representatives from the Swedish travel trade and media.

The event aimed to reaffirm Sri Lanka’s readiness as an open, safe, and welcoming tourism destination following Cyclone Ditwah, and to provide accurate, on-the-ground updates to strengthen confidence in the Nordic market.

Delivering the opening remarks, Sri Lankan Ambassador to Sweden Kapila Fonseka highlighted Sri Lanka’s resilience and swift recovery in the aftermath of the cyclone. He reaffirmed that the country is fully operational, with tourism services functioning normally, and emphasised the importance of continued collaboration with travel trade and media partners in conveying accurate information to prospective travellers in Sweden and the wider Nordic region.

A detailed presentation on Sri Lanka’s post-cyclone situation was delivered by Sri Lanka Embassy in Sweden Head of Chancery and Minister Udani Gunawardena outlining the rapid restoration of infrastructure, transport connectivity, and other tourism services. It was reassured that almost all tourist attractions, hotels, wildlife parks, and cultural sites are operating as normal, supported by strong tourist arrivals during December and high hotel occupancy levels during the peak season.

Addressing the gathering virtually from Colombo, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Sri Lanka Regional Manager Johan Aschan stated that tourism operations remain unaffected by the cyclone, with hotels booked well into April 2026, reflecting strong demand. Video testimonials from Swedish and Nordic travellers who recently visited Sri Lanka, compiled by Animals Ahangama Co-Founder Anndala Ehrstedt further reassured participants of safe and uninterrupted travel experiences.

Further remarks were delivered by Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Chair Lena Skogström, who shared her personal travel experiences in Sri Lanka, highlighting the country as a safe, comfortable, and welcoming destination. Sri Lanka–Sweden Business Council Secretary General Leif Ohson emphasised Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and the importance of supporting the country through tourism as it plays a key role in rebuilding livelihoods and communities.

The session concluded with tourism and Ceylon tea promotional videos followed by authentic Sri Lankan refreshments and networking.