Business
Looking after vulnerable groups is a prerequisite for attracting tourists and FDIs: State Minister
By Sanath Nanayakkare
State Minister of Finance Ranjith Siyambalapitiya said recently that a notable revival in tourism would bring multiple economic benefits to Sri Lanka, emphasizing that however, it is the duty of the government to look after the wellbeing of the vulnerable groups because Sri Lanka should first be seen in the eyes of the international community as a country that can take care of the low-income groups of the country.
“Then only foreign travellers will look at Sri Lanka as a safe and decent destination to travel to and foreign investors will see it as an investment-friendly country”,” he said.
He made these comments during a multi-TV channel programme held recently where several key political and public officials responsible for the country’s economy were quizzed by journalists.
Further speaking he said,” “Our US dollar inflows were hardly hit by the deterioration of tourism in the recent past that stemmed from the severe political instability and economic downturn. However, with the prevailing political stability, our tourist arrivals increased by 500% in the past few months. The message we need to convey to the world is that we are a safe holiday destination. And now there is a glimmer of hope for investments as well.”
“Elections are a vital fundamental of democracy. The past year was a year that disintegrated an all-powerful political power base due to the economic crisis. 6.9 million people that elected a President removed him from office. As a result, the Cabinet became null and void. And the parliament was also on the verge of collapse. In a nutshell, people’s democratic will was nullified by themselves. We are still in the throes of this economic crisis. The economy is still sliding down the slope although its speed has been reduced. Rs. 12 billion is required to hold LG elections and we have already allocated it. However, I would like to put it to you to decide whether going for LG polls at this time would be wise or not.”
“Taking care of the vulnerable groups in the face of the ongoing economic crisis would be an indispensable condition we need to create and ensure if we want to attract tourists to the country. If the people take to the streets in scores because the country cannot even provide the basic living conditions, it would send a very negative signal to the world. The government won’t allow that to happen and that’s why we are keen on protecting these groups through the measures we are taking now. If the larger section of the people is disillusioned and left behind as a result of the economic fallout, there is no way Sri Lanka can expect to create the favourable conditions for foreign visitors to come here and enjoy a good holiday.”
“When tourism booms, economic revival will become more realistic and pragmatic, foreign investors also would view Sri Lanka as a place steadily coming out of the crisis and putting the past behind it. And then other global organizations will also rally round to support us by providing us with advanced technological know-how, insights on how to optimize our productivity in our value chain, environmental sustainability practices, key partnerships etc. So, my point is; looking after the vulnerable sections of the country is a key requirement to revive tourism, attract investment and enable other positive prospects for the country.”
The Delegation of German Industry and Commerce in Sri Lanka (AHK Sri Lanka) proudly facilitated the first-ever Sri Lankan delegation’s participation at Drupa 2024, the world’s largest trade fair for the printing industry and technology. Held after an eight-year hiatus, Drupa 2024 was a landmark event, marking significant advancements and opportunities in the global printing industry.
AHK Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in organising and supporting the delegation, which comprised 17 members from the Sri Lanka Association for Printers (SLAP), representing eight companies from the commercial, newspaper, stationery printing, and packaging industries. This pioneering effort by AHK Sri Lanka not only showcased the diverse capabilities of Sri Lanka’s printing sector but also facilitated vital bilateral discussions with key stakeholders from the German printing industry.
Business
Unveiling Ayugiri: Browns Hotels & Resorts sets the stage for a new era in luxury Ayurveda Wellness
In a captivating reimagining of luxury wellness tourism, Browns Hotels & Resorts proudly unveiled the exquisite Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya. This momentous occasion, celebrated amidst a vibrant and serene grand opening on the 6th of June, heralds a new chapter in the Ayurveda wellness tourism landscape in Sri Lanka. Nestled amidst 54 acres of unspoiled natural splendour, Ayugiri features 22 exclusive suites and stands out as the only luxury Ayurveda wellness resort in the country offering plunge pools in every room, rendering it truly one-of-a-kind.
The grand opening of Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort was an enchanting event, where guests were captivated by the melodies of flutists and violinists resonating through Sigiriya’s lush landscapes. As traditional drummers and dancers infused the air with vibrant energy, Browns Hotels & Resorts’ CEO, Eksath Wijeratne, Kotaro Katsuki, Acting Ambassador for the Embassy of Japan and General Manager, Buwaneka Bandara, unveiled the resort’s new logo, marking a significant moment witnessed by distinguished guests from the French Embassy, Ayurveda and wellness enthusiasts along with officials from the Sigiriya area, LOLC Holdings and Browns Group.
“Our strategic expansion into wellness tourism with Ayugiri Ayurveda Wellness Resort Sigiriya symbolises a significant milestone for Browns Hotels & Resorts. Wellness tourism has consistently outperformed the overall tourism industry for over a decade, reflecting a growing global interest in travel that goes beyond leisure to offer rejuvenation and holistic well-being. By integrating the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda with modern luxury, we aim to set a new standard in luxury wellness tourism in Sri Lanka. Whether your goal is prevention, healing, or a deeper connection to inner harmony, Ayugiri offers a sanctuary for holistic well-being” stated Eksath Wijeratne.
Ayugiri encapsulates the essence of life, inspired by the lotus flower held by the graceful queens of the infamous Sigiriya frescoes. Just as the lotus emerges from the murky depths, untainted and serene,
Ayugiri invites guests on a journey of purity and rejuvenation, harmonised with a balance of mind, body and spirit, the essence of nature, echoes of culture and the wisdom of ancient Ayurvedic healing.
HNB General Insurance, one of Sri Lanka’s leading general insurance providers, has been honored as the Best General Bancassurance Provider in Sri Lanka 2024 by the prestigious Global Banking and Finance Review – UK.
The esteemed accolade underscores HNB General Insurance’s unwavering commitment to excellence and its outstanding performance in the field of bancassurance. Through dedication and hard work, the HNB General Insurance team has continuously endeavored to deliver innovative insurance solutions, cultivate strong relationships with banking partners, and provide unparalleled service to customers nationwide. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication and relentless pursuit of excellence in the bancassurance business.
“We are honored to receive this prestigious award, which reflects our team’s tireless efforts and dedication to delivering value-added insurance solutions and exceptional service through our bancassurance partnerships,” said Sithumina Jayasundara, CEO of HNB General Insurance. “This recognition reaffirms our position as a trusted insurance provider in Sri Lanka and motivates us to continue striving for excellence in serving our customers and communities.”
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