Ministry to attract 2.5 m tourists in 2016

Dharma SRI ABEYRATNE

In line with the World Tourism Day celebrations on September 27, the Economic Development Ministry's Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau will launch several activities to attract 2.5 million tourists to Sri Lanka by 2016, Economic Development Deputy Minister Laksman Yapa Abeywardena said.

The Minister addressing the media yesterday in Colombo said Sri Lanka is an ideal tourist destination.

"The government will launch several national level programs to promote tourism while upgrading facilities for both local and foreign tourists. Tourism day activities will be carried out under the theme 'Tourism and biodiversity' since the protection of the environment is equally important as promoting tourism.

No constructions will be allowed if it has an impact on the environment, the Minister said.

"Sri Lanka has been identified as a biodiversity hotspot which is an ideal place for tourism. When considering the peaceful situation in the country, Sri Lanka can achieve the set goals," Minister Abeywardena added.

Kirala Kale in Matara will be introduced on September 27 as a new tourist location by the Economic Development Ministry. Kirala Kale is close to Nilwala Ganga and has an eye catching environment. "Facilities for tourists will be developed in Kirala Kale," the Minister said.