Deputy Minister of Tourism Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe yesterday (21) called on BIMSTEC member states to strengthen regional tourism cooperation through improved connectivity, integrated tourism products and sustainable development, saying no country could fully realise its tourism potential in isolation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Delivering the keynote address at the opening of the 4th Meeting of the BIMSTEC Network of Tour Operators (BNTO) in Colombo, the Deputy Minister welcomed delegates from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand and Sri Lanka, describing the conference as an important platform to deepen partnerships among tourism stakeholders across the Bay of Bengal region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He said the BIMSTEC region was uniquely positioned to become one of the world\u2019s most attractive and diverse tourism destinations, given its rich cultural heritage, biodiversity, spiritual traditions and historical significance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe BIMSTEC region is uniquely positioned to become one of the world\u2019s most attractive and diverse tourism destinations. Home to nearly one-quarter of the global population, our region possesses an extraordinary wealth of cultural heritage, spiritual traditions, biodiversity, natural beauty and historical significance,\u201d Prof. Ranasinghe said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Deputy Minister noted that changing global travel trends had created new opportunities for member countries to jointly promote authentic experiences, wellness tourism, eco-tourism, cultural tourism and multi-destination travel packages. He stressed that tour operators play a vital role in connecting destinations with international markets while creating employment and supporting economic development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Calling for stronger regional collaboration, Prof. Ranasinghe urged member states to prioritise enhanced air, maritime and land connectivity, develop multi-country tourism circuits, embrace digital innovation, promote sustainable tourism practices and strengthen public-private partnerships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe firmly believe that the future of tourism lies in partnerships. No country can fully realise its tourism potential in isolation. Through collaboration, connectivity and a shared vision, we can create a stronger and more competitive BIMSTEC tourism brand that benefits all our nations,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Highlighting Sri Lanka\u2019s tourism recovery, he said the country was honoured to host the conference at a time when the sector was experiencing a strong resurgence and reaffirmed Sri Lanka\u2019s commitment to advancing regional tourism cooperation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Deputy Minister also noted that the 2026-2027 period holds special significance as BIMSTEC prepares to commemorate its 30th anniversary in 2027, providing member states with an opportunity to reaffirm their commitment to regional cooperation and strengthen partnerships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Expressing confidence in the conference outcomes, Prof. Ranasinghe said the meeting would contribute to BIMSTEC\u2019s vision of a prosperous, resilient and interconnected Bay of Bengal community, with tourism serving as a key pillar of economic growth, regional integration and stronger people-to-people connectivity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Source: Daily News<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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