• Both countries are focused on implementing the health guidelines issued  by the Sri Lankan Ministry of Health and the Indian Ministry of Home  Affairs

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya  

Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga said that attention is being paid to resume flights between Sri Lanka and India in accordance with health guidelines and within an air travel bubble. 

The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka has submitted a proposal to the External Affairs Ministry and the Tourism Ministry in this regard.   

The Minister said that both countries are focused on implementing the health guidelines issued by the Sri Lankan Ministry of Health and the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs.  The Indian Ministry of Home Affairs has so far issued guidelines with regard to inbound and outbound air passengers and the Indian High Commissioner has suggested to the Government that the project could be launched if an agreement is reached.   Accordingly, the Minister said, he hopes to discuss this proposal with the health authorities of the country and the COVID-19 Prevention Committee soon. Meanwhile, the latest report released by the Tourism Development Authority states that 1,682 tourists visited the country during the month of January.