By Rafiq Vayani
KARACHI/LAHORE: Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB), in collaboration with the Consulate General of Sri Lanka (Karachi), is excited to announce the launch of a two-city roadshow in Karachi and Lahore. This initiative is part of SLCB’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its presence in one of its key source markets, Pakistan. The first roadshow will be held in Karachi on June 26 at the Marriot Hotel, followed by Lahore on June 28 at the Nishat Hotel.
In recent years, Sri Lanka has seen a significant rise in international tourist arrivals. The upcoming roadshows aim to showcase the diverse range of tourism experiences Sri Lanka offers, encouraging potential travelers to make bookings. The events will emphasize that Sri Lanka is fully open for leisure, business, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism.
The target audience for these roadshows includes tour operators, media representatives, key influencers, corporate leaders, trade associations, and prominent tourism industry stakeholders in Pakistan. These participants play a crucial role in spreading the message that Sri Lanka is not only a beautiful destination with a wide array of attractions and experiences but also a safe and secure place to visit.
The roadshows will feature B2B sessions designed to foster productive discussions and build stronger business partnerships. An evening networking event will provide additional opportunities for collaboration. During these events, the Sri Lankan delegation will engage with high-profile business leaders, tourism stakeholders, and corporate representatives, and participate in media interviews with leading Pakistani outlets.
“Sri Lanka is an excellent MICE destination due to its proximity and strong connectivity, making it a cost-effective and appealing option for travelers seeking meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions,” says Thisum Jayasuriya, Chairman of the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau.
Consul General Jagath Abeywarna assured Pakistan’s tourism industry that visa facilitation for Pakistanis traveling to Sri Lanka is ensured and will be smooth, in coordination with Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration.
Sri Lanka High Commissioner to Pakistan, Admiral Ravindra C. Wijegunaratne (Retired), acknowledged the strong bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Pakistan and emphasized the need to elevate this relationship to the next level.
