Sri Lanka back on its feet again: minister

A month after deadly terror attacks struck the nation, conditions are gradually returning to normal, according to Minister of Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs John Amaratunga, who stated: “Our security forces have been able to completely neutralise the terrorist threat. The healing process has also achieved much ground and things are fast returning to normal.”

“I can assure tourists that we have taken all precautions to ensure their safety in all parts of the country. Hotels and airlines have come out with never to be repeated offers so now is the time to visit the country. I must state that none of our tourist sites were affected and remain ready to welcome visitors. Sri Lanka is very much open for business,” he added.

To this end, the country is witnessing a gradual increase in tourist arrivals with records indicating that there were 30,203 visitors between 21 April and 12 May – this number increased by 10,324 more tourists over the next nine days.

The country has expressed confidence in hosting a series of previously planned events, which include the World Surf League competition, West Asia Baseball Cup 2019, AIESEC International Congress, Colombo International Logistics Conference, and Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora.