Sri Lanka (Commonwealth Union)_ President Ranil Wickremesinghe has unveiled a promising new tourism initiative titled ‘Visit Sri Lanka’, which is slated for release in the upcoming months. The President’s Media Division (PMD) reported that the proposal is currently in its final stages of development and will be made public once it reaches completion. Under this plan, particular emphasis will be placed on elevating the culinary arts in Sri Lanka.
According to the PMD, President Wickremesinghe made this announcement during his attendance at the prestigious ‘Bocuse d’Or 2023’ competition’s Award Ceremony and Gala dinner held at the Waters Edge Grand Ballroom. The primary objective of the government is to attract five million tourists, half of whom will be high-end visitors, recognizing the tourism sector’s significant role in driving the economy. President Wickremesinghe noted that, according to Indian estimates, Sri Lanka has the potential to accommodate up to 10 million tourists, particularly from the Asian and Indian Ocean regions.
To achieve competitiveness in the global travel market, the transformation of the tourism industry is imperative. The government recognizes the potential of promoting Sri Lanka as a tropical destination with a diverse culinary identity, thus spotlighting the development of culinary tourism within the country. In support of this vision, the government plans to establish a collaborative Culinary School involving the private sector, travel industry, and hotel industry. This initiative aims to train more personnel in the hospitality field, with a specific focus on culinary tourism. Additionally, the government intends to offer assistance to private Culinary Schools in fulfilling this crucial task.
During the event, President Wickremesinghe paid tribute to the late Merrill J. Fernando, a renowned business leader and the founder of Sri Lanka’s popular ‘Dilmah Tea‘ brand, for his invaluable contributions to the nation’s tourism industry. In a touching moment, President Ranil Wickremesinghe expressed the void left by Merrill’s absence, acknowledging his significant role in the success of such functions. The President spoke fondly of Merrill’s contributions to the tourism industry, comparable to his impact on the tea industry. Wickremesinghe recounted a time in 2002, during his tenure as Prime Minister, when Merrill was part of a select group with whom he consulted on economic matters and expanding tourism. The loss of Merrill was felt deeply on both a personal and professional level by those present at the event.
