Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has expressed satisfaction and delight in Sri Lanka being chosen for the top spot. ‘This is a result of a policy we have followed from 2015, of giving prominence to tourism, of developing tourism - that today, we have come into this category of being the top tourist destination,’ he said in a press release.
‘While being inspired by this achievement Sri Lanka as a tourist destination has to look at the shortcomings in the tourist system, and overcome them, he said. ‘We have to ensure that we plan for the future; that we cater for backpackers as well as high spending tourists.
‘What matters to us first and foremost is a high income from tourists, not merely the numbers. Today, we are a destination for people from Japan, China, India, and into Europe. We have to increase the numbers coming into the country. We have to safeguard our historical monuments, we must safeguard our natural wildlife, and we have to add more attractions.
‘Tourism today concerns a large number of people, not merely large hoteliers, but all those who have home-stay accommodations, small shops, and small restaurants.
We should widen and increase the numbers participating and benefitting in tourism’.
The Prime Minister thanked all those who are responsible for Sri Lanka being named a top destination and those who gave their valuable service; all the people who are connected to and involved in the hospitality and tourism industry; and the Sri Lankan people, for the friendly demeanour they have shown to all tourists.