Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Namal Rajapaksa has voiced strong opposition to the government’s decision to promote LGBTIQ-focused tourism, saying the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage are more than sufficient to attract visitors without highlighting issues of gender identity or sexual orientation.
“We should not base our tourism promotion on issues of gender identity or sexual orientation. Our rich and authentic heritage is more than enough to attract visitors from around the world irrespective of their gender preferences,” Rajapaksa said.
He urged the government to reconsider the initiative and to “approach such sensitive matters with greater responsibility,” stressing that Sri Lanka has long been a popular destination because of its scenery, culture and traditions.
“We don’t need to focus on gender identity to draw in visitors,” he added.
Rajapaksa’s remarks come amid growing political debate over a Sri Lanka Tourism project endorsed earlier this month to promote LGBTIQ travel in partnership with rights organisation Equal Ground.
Former Health Minister Dr. Channa Jayasumana and Jaffna District MP Ramanathan Archchuna have also called on President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to suspend the project, citing cultural and public health concerns.
