A joint proposal to provide free visas to travelers from China, India, Russia, Thailand, and Indonesia was presented to the Cabinet. This initiative is part of an overarching strategy to attract more tourists to the picturesque island nation of Sri Lanka.

Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Tourism and Land Minister Harin Fernando, and Public Security Minister Tiran Alles jointly presented the proposal, highlighting its potential to boost tourism and economic growth in the country.

The Tourism Ministry released a statement emphasizing the purpose of exempting tourists from many countries from visa requirements, stating that it is a strategic effort to draw in more visitors to Sri Lanka. The ultimate goal of this initiative is to significantly increase tourist arrivals in the coming years.

The proposal envisions a target of five million tourists annually, a substantial increase from current numbers. By offering visa-free entry to travelers from these countries, Sri Lanka aims to diversify its tourism base and encourage more international visitors to explore its rich cultural heritage, pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant cities.

Tourism is a major driver of the Sri Lankan economy, and this initiative aims to unlock the full potential of the country's tourist attractions. By waiving visa fees for visitors from China, India, Russia, Thailand, and Indonesia, the government anticipates a boost in tourism revenue and the creation of employment opportunities within the sector.