The China–Sri Lanka–Maldives Tourism Forum was successfully held today at the iconic Cinnamon Life – city of Dreams , marking a significant milestone in regional tourism cooperation and joint destination marketing.
The forum was graced by Ms. Harini Amarasuriya, the Hon. Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, who underscored the country's commitment to strengthening partnerships in the tourism sector across the South Asian and Asia-Pacific regions. Also present were H.E Qi Zhenhong, the Ambassador, of the People’s Republic of China to Sri Lanka, Mr. Arun Hemachandran ,the Hon. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Buddika Hewawasam, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), and Mr. Chinthaka Liyanaarachchi , Deputy Director of Marketing of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB).
This landmark event brought together public and private sector leaders, tourism officials, and media representatives to promote the concept of joint destination marketing—an innovative approach in which countries collaborate to market themselves as a unified regional travel circuit, rather than individual destinations. This strategy aims to attract long-haul travellers by offering multi-country itineraries with rich and diverse cultural and natural experiences.
Sri Lanka, with its strategic location, vibrant heritage, and exceptional tourism offerings, stands to gain immensely from such collaborative efforts. By leveraging synergies with China and the Maldives, Sri Lanka aims to enhance tourist arrivals, foster cultural exchanges, and create shared prosperity through sustainable tourism.
A key highlight of the forum was the formal induction of Colombo, Kandy, and Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte into the International Tourism Alliance of Silk Road Cities—a globally significant initiative launched in 2023 by the China Center for International Culture and Tourism Exchanges, in collaboration with prominent tourism cities around the world.
Designed as an inclusive international platform, the Silk Road City Alliance brings together 76 tourism cities from 31 countries, including Quanzhou (China), Male (Maldives), and now Colombo, Kandy, and Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte (Sri Lanka). It seeks to foster friendly exchange and practical cooperation in tourism through a wide range of activities such as annual mayors' meetings, professional forums, business discussions, and coordinated promotional campaigns.
By becoming members of this alliance, the said three Sri Lankan cities join a dynamic network committed to advancing shared inbound tourism growth, encouraging tourism upgrading, and supporting the realization of global development initiatives.
This membership not only enhances Sri Lanka’s visibility on the world stage but also aligns perfectly with the country's vision of fostering sustainable tourism, cultural exchange, and international collaboration.
The event garnered significant international media attention, with coverage by China Media Group (CCTV), Singhu News, and Global Times, further amplifying the forum’s message across global platforms.
Sri Lanka Tourism expresses its deep appreciation to all dignitaries, partners, and participants for their commitment to fostering a shared vision for regional tourism development. The success of this forum reinforces Sri Lanka’s position as a premier tourism destination in South Asia and a vital node in the global travel network.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau
Email: info@srilanka.travel
Phone: +94 11 242 6900
Website: www.srilanka.travel
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