The government has announced the official launch of the “Kingdom of Kotte” Tourism Trail, which will take place on 27th July 2025.

Issuing a statement on social media, Deputy Minister of Industries and Enterprise Development, Chathuranga Abeysinghe, said this was an important milestone for Sri Lanka and especially for the historic city of Kotte.

He further stated that this initiative is part of a broader vision to develop Kotte as a model destination, showcasing the city’s remarkable blend of heritage, culture, and urban wetland biodiversity. 

As the world’s first wetland capital and the last royal capital of Sri Lanka, Kotte holds immense potential for eco, cultural, and wellness tourism.

This initiative is being implemented under the strategic guidance of the Governor of the Western Province and is organized by the Kotte Green Tourism Network (KGTN), a community-based organization, in collaboration with the Western Province Tourist Board, he said.

The “Kingdom of Kotte” Tourism Trail event will feature a symbolic heritage parade, visits to significant cultural and ecological landmarks, engagement of foreign visitors, national leaders, and media, and a showcase of community-driven initiatives and conservation efforts. 

“This marks the beginning of a long-term plan to promote tourism in Kotte, ensuring sustainable development and community upliftment through responsible tourism. As a representative of the people, I am proud to support this initiative that puts Kotte on the global tourism map and helps preserve our natural and cultural legacy for generations to come,” he said.

Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe pointed out that with the right partnerships, active community involvement, and continued government support, this initiative has the power to transform Kotte into a vibrant, eco-conscious tourism model, one that honours Sri Lanka’s proud past while unlocking new opportunities for the future. (Newswire)

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The National Peoples’ Power (NPP) says the party’s economic policy has been prepared so that the living standards are expected to improve in the next two to three years. 

Speaking at an event, NPP Executive Member Chathuranga Abeysinghe said the NPP believes the current tax system is unfair to every worker, except the IT Sector.

Abeysinghe further said that the NPP expects to increase the minimum income tax threshold to Rs. 200,000 as the Rs. 100,000 threshold is very low. 

Pointing out that the current tax brackets were too close, he said “When you take Rs. 350,000 and Rs. 450,000 brackets you have already reached the 36% tax rate. Therefore, the NPP is looking to expand the tax brackets and provide the necessary concessions to the workers.” 

On Value Added Tax (VAT), Abeysinghe said they have discussed the possibility of halting the leakages in Customs duties via digitalization and that the additional revenue obtained through this move will help reduce the taxes imposed on essential goods. 

He revealed that under an NPP government, a worker will be able to face a reduction in taxes and costs for education and health services. 

“If the health system is implemented properly then we will be able to see a significant reduction in cost. Therefore, I am sure we can improve our living standards in the next two to three years,” he added. (Newswire)

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