The Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) commenced its 67th annual convention at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) in Colombo on Thursday (July 6), marking a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts to support Sri Lanka’s tourism sector.
With the Sri Lankan government’s ongoing endeavours to revive tourism, the convention is expected to play a crucial role in boosting the industry.
The four-day convention, held in partnership with the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) and the Sri Lankan Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO), has brought together over 500 delegates, including travel agents, tour operators, industry experts, and media personnel. Under the theme of “Transcending Borders, Transforming Lives,” the convention aims to explore opportunities for regional cooperation and discuss strategies to facilitate cross-border travel, trade, and investment.
Addressing the press conference during the convention’s official opening, Jyoti Mayal, President of TAAI, expressed optimism about the future of tourism between India and Sri Lanka. She stated, “I am confident that Sri Lanka is going to receive many more tourists in the days to come,” highlighting the potential for strengthened tourism ties between the two nations.
Mayal asserted the significance of collaboration among stakeholders at various levels to adopt a holistic approach, integrating policies, regulations, incentives, standards, technologies, and best practices. This approach, she pointed out, would contribute to the sustainable growth of the tourism industry in the region.
The convention’s opening ceremony was graced by the presence of Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe as the chief guest. The historic BMICH venue witnessed vibrant cultural performances by a troupe of artists, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. Additionally, a video presentation by the SLTPB outlined the Sri Lankan government’s vision to revitalize the tourism sector and restore it to full operation.
Gopal Bagley, the High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka, also attended the inaugural ceremony and addressed the delegates. Bagley highlighted the improved air connectivity between India and Sri Lanka, including the resumption of air services between Chennai and Jaffna. He shared that both governments are trying to establish ferry services between Karaikal in the Union Territory of Puducherry and Kankesanthurai (KKS) in Jaffna, which will enhance connectivity and promote people-to-people exchanges.
Nishad Wijetunga, President of SLAITO, expressed enthusiasm about the event, highlighting the association’s long-standing relationship with TAAI. He noted that hosting the convention reflected Sri Lanka’s resilience and recovery following the challenges faced in the past.
Chalaka Gajabahu, Chairman of SLTPB, shared that the island nation for the first time in 15 years is going to implement a comprehensive 360-degree marketing strategy targeting key international source markets, with a particular emphasis on India and China. As part of these efforts, approximately 1,000 social media influencers from around the world will be hosted to showcase the diverse tourism offerings in Sri Lanka.
“The forthcoming Asia Cup cricket tournament is an excellent opportunity to attract Indian tourists, especially during the highly anticipated India-Pakistan matches,” said Gajabahu. He praised the contributions of Sri Lankan cricket legend Sanath Jayasuriya, who serves as a tourism ambassador, for promoting Sri Lanka’s tourism initiatives in India.
As the convention progresses, industry professionals and experts will engage in fruitful discussions, fostering stronger partnerships and paving the way for a prosperous tourism industry in both nations.