Minister of Tourism Milinda Moragoda was expected to leave for Iran on Sunday, with a view to examining potential for increasing tourist arrivals from Iran to Sri Lanka and improving cooperation in the field of tourism.


He will be accompanied by a private sector delegation representing several leading Sri Lankan companies engaged in the hospitality industry, in both the travel and hotel sectors. The delegation will meet with their counterparts to discuss arrangements for increased tourist traffic from Iran to Sri Lanka, to examine the potential for Sri Lanka hoteliers to invest in Iran and to reach management agreements with Iranian hoteliers, where possible.


In addition to the hospitality industry, Iran is also interested in the apparel industry and the delegation will examine potential existing in that and other sectors, where Sri Lankan expertise could be promoted.


Minister Moragoda has undertaken the visit on the invitation of Iranian authorities and will engage in discussions to enhance business opportunities for Sri Lankan firms in Iran. During the visit Minister Moragoda will meet with high officials of relevant institutions, including his Iranian counterpart Esfandiar Rahim-Mashaei, Vice-President for Tourism Affairs.


With the great improvement in the security situation following last week’s victory by the armed forces, Sri Lanka Tourism will launch a well-timed global promotional campaign in June. Focus of attention in this campaign will be key markets such as the U.K., France, Germany, the Russian Federation, the Middle East and India.