(COLOMBO, LANKAPUVATH) – Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is heading in the right direction, says Norwegian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Thorbjørn Gaustadsæther.
The outgoing Ambassador, who is due to leave after completing his tenure in Sri Lanka, in an exclusive interview with the National Rupavahini, said Sri Lanka is still in the heart of foreigners, despite a slight decline in tourism after the Easter Sunday attacks.
“Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is heading in the right direction. Tourist arrivals are on the rise. Last year, 15,000 Norwegian tourists arrived. There is a good trend this year too.”
He said although after the Easter attacks, a slight drop of tourist arrivals is seen over the past two to three months, the tourists will return.
“I think it will return to its previous state. Why, because Sri Lanka is in the minds of foreigners.”
The envoy noted that the trade between the two countries is also growing, especially with increased investment in the fisheries, maritime and IT sectors.
Norway Ambassador expressing his views about terrorism said many countries experience terrorism.
“Unfortunately this is happening in many countries these day. Unfortunate attacks, such as the Easter Sunday bombings in Sri Lanka, could happen anywhere. It is important to take preventive measures. Intelligence units and intelligence services are needed”
“Working closely with communities also helps us understand what is happening. A common approach to take political leadership to suppress hate and negative statements is very important,” the Ambassador pointed out.
