Italy-Sri Lanka bilateral dialogue sets stage for greater collaboration in tourism

A bilateral dialogue on Tourism organised by the Italian Embassy in Colombo held recently brought together key stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality sectors from Sri Lanka and Italy with the goal of exploring and leveraging on synergies and opportunities for collaboration between the two countries.

Ambassador for Italy in Sri Lanka Rita Giuliana Mannella delved into the relationship between Sri Lanka and Italy, calling it a strong and abiding one. “While celebrating ancient links coupled with strong socio-political ties, we are excited about the possibilities for partnership and collaboration in the spheres of culture and tourism, which have the potential to deepen the dynamic and mutually rewarding relationship between our countries,” she said.

A delegation comprising the Special Ambassador of the Bid Committee of Expo 2030 Rome Prof. Romeo Orlandi, Legal Advisor to the Councilor for Culture of the Municipality of Rome Miguel Gotor Lorenzo Bimbi and CEO & Founder of Mancini Worldwide Alessandro Mancini representing the largest collective of tour operators and agents in Italy directed the dialogue to reflect the modern day Italian traveler.

Orlandi spoke of Rome’s candidature for World Expo 2030 and inherent benefits Sri Lanka would gain with its success, while Bimbi journeyed through what Italy has to offer the contemporary traveler. Through examples, Mancini showcased the quantifiable increase in visitor numbers if a destination is marketed with the correct branding and marketing.

Adding to the discussions were Communication Manager of the University of Gastronomic Sciences of Pollenzo Paolo Ferrarini and External Relations Manager of the ALMA School of Italian Cuisine Candida D’Elia, both of who were enthusiastic on leveraging collaborations in the culinary arts with stakeholders in Sri Lanka. In his closing remarks, Minister of Education Dr Susil Premajayantha stressed the importance of establishing long-standing partnerships in education and training to enrich Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector. “Sri Lanka’s vibrant tourism sector is helmed by innovative private enterprise and supported by professional vocational development institutions. They are eager to learn, grow, and adapt to the changing needs of tourists, in order to provide visitors with the best Sri Lanka has to offer.”