Embassy of Sri Lanka in Ankara Engages TÜRSAB to Promote Tourism Recovery

With a view to exploring avenues for enhanced tourism promotion in the Turkish market in the aftermath of the cyclone Ditwah, the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Türkiye, Niluka Kadurugamuwa, met today (11) in Ankara with the Board President, Muhammet Saritaş, and other representatives of the Central Anatolia Regional Representative Board of the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies (TÜRSAB).

Briefing the Board President on the current situation in Sri Lanka, the Ambassador emphasised that Sri Lanka remains fully open for tourists, noting that tourism-related infrastructure, including along the coastal belt, has not been affected by the severe floods and landslides. He further highlighted that Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo continues to function without any interruption, ensuring smooth travel operations for international visitors.

The Ambassador appealed to TÜRSAB leadership to disseminate positive, accurate information about Sri Lanka among its extensive membership of Turkish travel agencies, encouraging them to reaffirm to clients that Sri Lanka remains a safe, vibrant, and welcoming destination despite the effects of the cyclone.

TÜRSAB representatives expressed their fullest support in conveying this message across their member network, acknowledging the strong potential for Sri Lanka in the Turkish outbound tourism market. They further noted that, with the existing air connectivity between Türkiye and Sri Lanka, they are well-positioned to promote Sri Lanka more aggressively as an attractive destination for Turkish travellers.

The Embassy appreciates TÜRSAB’s willingness to collaborate and looks forward to strengthening partnerships aimed at revitalising Sri Lanka’s tourism sector and enhancing people-to-people links between Sri Lanka and Türkiye.

Embassy of Sri Lanka

Ankara

11 December 2025