Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Iran, G.M.V. Wishwanath Aponsu, has actively promoted Sri Lanka as a sought-after tourist destination to Iranians. Highlighting the significant growth in tourism between the two countries, the ambassador showcased the thriving relationship at a media briefing session held at the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Tehran.
Emphasizing the recovery of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry after the economic crisis triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, Ambassador Aponsu acknowledged Iran’s pivotal role as one of the top 10 tourism source markets for Sri Lanka in March 2023. Tourist arrivals from Iran to Sri Lanka have surged by over 77% during the first quarter of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022.
The media briefing witnessed the participation of key representatives from Iran’s Tourism Ministry, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, travel associations, tour operators, airlines, bloggers, and travel media personnel. The event aimed to highlight recent developments in Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, recognize the contributions of tourism stakeholders in Iran, and foster closer people-to-people connections between the two nations.
The interactive session also saw the inauguration of the Sri Lanka Tourism Information Centre within the Embassy premises. This dedicated center provides visitors with comprehensive information on Sri Lanka’s tourism offerings, including brochures, maps, travel guides, and the latest updates on attractions and experiences. The attendees were treated to a delightful reception featuring the renowned Ceylon Tea.
Ambassador Aponsu presented awards to 15 top tourism stakeholders who played instrumental roles in facilitating a substantial number of Iranian tourists to Sri Lanka in the first quarter of 2023. He expressed gratitude for their efforts in promoting Sri Lanka as a preferred destination among Iranian travelers.
Dr. Hamid Reza Gholamzadeh, Secretary General of the Asian Mayors Forum (AMF), highlighted the potential for fostering cooperative networks and structured collaborations in urban tourism among AMF member cities. Hussein Rafiei, Chairman of the Association of Air Transport and Tourist Agencies of Iran, commended Ambassador Aponsu’s unwavering dedication to expanding tourism ties between the two countries.
The event served as a platform to showcase Sri Lanka’s diverse attractions through a comprehensive presentation and captivating tourism video. It further reinforced the commitment of the Sri Lankan Embassy in Tehran to strengthen bilateral relations in the tourism sector and foster greater cooperation among tourism stakeholders.
As Sri Lanka continues to position itself as an alluring destination, the ambassador’s efforts and the collaboration between Sri Lanka and Iran pave the way for an exciting future of increased tourism exchanges and cultural interactions.
Source: DailyFT
