French Navy visits Sri Lanka under bio security bubble, clarifies SLTDA

• To visit Yala, Minneriya-Kawudulla, Udawalawa and Eco Park in Habarana
• SLAITO says revenue generated from the visit will provide tourism sector stakeholders some relief

Sri Lanka Tourism yesterday stressed there is no need for the general public to panic with regard to the arrival of a French Navy fleet in Colombo as the crew will be travelling to selected sites under the bio security bubble.

Issuing a statement to clarify the misconception widely circulating on social media on the arrival of the French crew, the SLTDA said that Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of France in Sri Lanka have agreed on a diplomatic level to facilitate the members of the two French vessels visiting the island nation from 7 to 11 June.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry had informed the Secretaries of Health and Tourism on 24 May in writing informing the arrival of the French crew members and their request to be allowed to visit the National Parks of Yala, Minneriya-Kawudulla, Udawalawa and the Eco Park in Habarana. 

“Upon the request, the State Ministry of Wildlife and Forest Conservation approved 422 number of French crew members to visit these National Parks under strict bio-bubble conditions. Sri Lanka Navy will ensure adherence to health guidelines throughout the visit,” the SLTDA said in a media statement yesterday.

The SLTDA stressed that it continues to work to ensure tourism is supported in a responsible manner and seek the support of the general public to abstain from circulating false statements. 

Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO) pointed out that at a time when the industry is suffering from the implications stemming from the pandemic, the revenue generated from the arrival of the French navy personnel will provide tourism sector stakeholders some relief.

“The revenue generated will provide the already ailing tourism industry and its stakeholders with a much needed boost of foreign exchange,” SLAITO said in a statement issued to provide clarity on the misconception.

The Association added that three-day tour of the French navy personnel will generate about 3,000 room nights within the cultural triangle and beach resorts. 

“The entry fee income alone will generate US$ 25,000 to our economy,” SLAITO stressed.