Lanka crowned most popular country representation

Beijing International Travel Expo 2009:

Sri Lanka was named the most popular country representation from a total of 593 exhibitors from 82 countries and regions at the recently held Beijing International Tourism Expo (BITE) 2009.

The exhibition attracted over 40,000 professional and 80,000 public customers. Performers from Channa-Upuli Arts Foundation brought a completely novel image of Sri Lanka to the Chinese customer by portraying the traditional wedding ceremony and dance forms of Sri Lanka.

The stage backdrop on the shape of the Island of Sri Lanka as well as the Chinese models featuring traditional wedding attire attracted a large number of customers, most who were very eager to pose for photographs with the models.

The free trial of traditional bridal dresses and printing of photos on site made Sri Lanka one of the most visited and most popular country representations during BITE.

Two days prior to the opening of BITE, a Sri Lanka promotional workshop was organized at the Sheraton Hotel in Tianjin. It was the very first time Sri Lanka Tourism authorities were present in Tianjin city for promotions.

Supported by Tianjin Municipal Tourism Authority (TJMTA), around 40 representatives from 15 local agencies and 5 media organizations attended the meeting.

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, SriLankan Airlines, and representatives from ground handling agencies i.e., Aitken Spence, Jetwing, Lanka Holidays, LSR and Walkers delivered presentations on the tourism industry and relevant information of the country.

Tianjin is a port city neighbouring Beijing with significant outbound and inbound tourism potential.

Ambassador K. Amunugama said that the long awaited moment has arrived to promote Sri Lanka and invited Chinese travel industry personnel to use this wonderful opportunity.

The Ambassador also thanked the media for the positive contribution that they have made even during difficult times.

Acting Director- Marketing of Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) Madubhani Perera explained the new promotional campaign on image building strategy of SLTPB. Perera expressed SLTPB's commitment to work with Chinese travel agents and travel media to promote Sri Lanka.

Country Manager of SriLankan Airlines T. Jayaseelan and representatives from six local ground handling agencies of Sri Lanka were present.

Ambassador Amunugama said 15 media persons will be invited to visit Sri Lanka this September, which will help Chinese tourists to know more about the new Sri Lanka.