A three day special tourism development study tour organized for heads of foreign diplomatic missions based in Colombo recently concluded, highlighting the Eastern Province’s rich cultural heritage, investment potential, and key economic drivers. Organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, the diplomatic initiative aimed to showcase the region’s dynamic trade opportunities and positioning as a premier global tourist destination.
The diplomatic delegation departed Colombo from the Hilton Hotel on September 18, traveling directly to Pasikudah. Upon arrival, the diplomats visited the pristine Pasikudah beach and attended an exhibition showcasing products from local small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) artisans. The first day concluded with a dinner featuring traditional cultural dance performances representing the identity of the Eastern Province. Addressing the gathered diplomats, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, Hon. Vijitha Herath, emphasized the strategic importance and economic potential of the Eastern region to Sri Lanka’s broader development agenda.
The second day focused on industrial development, cultural heritage, and economic collaboration. The delegation toured the Eravur Export Processing Zone before making spiritual visits to the historical Seruwawila Buddhist Temple and the Koneswaram Hindu Kovil in Trincomalee, participating in religious observances at both sites. Later that evening, an official Investment Forum was hosted at the DSK Hotel in Trincomalee. The forum was attended by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment, Hon. Arun Hemachandra, along with regional political leaders, public representatives, and government officials to deliberate on long term regional growth and investment avenues.
On the final day, diplomats visited the Trincomalee Naval Dockyard, where they participated in a boat tour and visited the Naval Museum before returning to Colombo. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the successful three-day exposure tour served as a key stepping stone to strengthening diplomatic and international relations, exposing regional economic potential to global partners, and fostering sustainable, long-term tourism growth for Sri Lanka.
