A high-level discussion focusing on the 2027 Budget proposals for the Ministry of Tourism was held at the Presidential Secretariat this afternoon (October 28) under the leadership of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. During the meeting, the President reviewed the progress of individual tourism promotion projects, addressed arising operational challenges, and evaluated immediate solutions.
Key points of discussion included a major tourism development project centered around Dutch ports in Jaffna, Mannar and Batticaloa, with the President emphasizing the critical need to preserve historical heritage during implementation.
The session also covered marine tourism initiatives, the establishment of financing mechanisms to sustain projects launched last year, and enhanced port facilities designed to promote cruise tourism. Furthermore, participants explored strategic measures to internationally promote Anuradhapura, Mihintale and Kandy as distinctive destinations centered on Buddhist education and spiritual tourism.
The meeting reviewed the development of eco-tourism destinations alongside progress on the Southern Mist project across the Southern and Sabaragamuwa Provinces. To build industry capacity, discussions centered on expanding Ministry-led entrepreneurship education and training programs, as well as introducing dedicated tourism-related degree courses.
Additionally, attendees evaluated measures to strengthen the Tourist Police to ensure visitor safety and provide prompt assistance, alongside expanding domestic air services to drive tourism growth in the Northern and Eastern Provinces. (Newswire)