Sri Lankas Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vijitha Herath, has actually supplied an upgrade on the nations strategic efforts to renew its tourist sector, which has dealt with extraordinary difficulties in recent years due to the Easter Sunday attacks, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the economic crisis.Speaking at the India Foundation Program, Herath mentioned, We too had such a big tourist before the Easter Sunday attack, 2018.
We got (the) highest quantities of travelers.
And at that time, according to my memory, we earned four billion (dollars).
Herath pointed out the intensifying challenges Sri Lanka faced due to these crises: After the Easter Sunday attack, there was a COVID-19 situation.
After that, the recession existed.
Due to the fact that of those 3 factors, we faced so many troubles.
The first one was the Easter Sunday attack.
The second one was COVID-19.
The 3rd one was the recession.
Now, all those factors are not there, he discussed, including that these barriers are no longer present.Looking forward, the Minister revealed hope for enhancing tourism, especially from India: We can increase our tourist market.
And we intend to open our hands to India.
And we hope the Indian tourists will come.A crucial part of the technique to enhance tourist involves a policy modification set for January 2024.
Herath revealed, At the start of next January, we will pass some cassette alert in the parliament.
Because cassette notice, we will give free visas to 39 countries.This relocation is anticipated to make it simpler for travelers, consisting of those from India, to visit Sri Lanka.Additionally, Herath made an appeal concerning travel facilities for Sri Lankans to India, mentioning, Then the most of the Indians, not only Indians however likewise so 39 other countries, travelers can visit us easily.
And apart from that, I feel from your country, you asked also for that facility.
India has not given that center yet.
Therefore, please notify your government to give that center to Sri Lankans.(ANI)-- Agencies