China-Sri Lanka-Maldives Tourism Forum Strengthens Regional Ties in Colombo

Building bridges through tourism, culture, and shared prosperity

The China-Sri Lanka-Maldives Tourism Forum officially opened in Colombo on June 16, bringing together leaders and industry representatives to enhance regional tourism cooperation.

More than 120 delegates, including Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister Amarasuriya, Maldives Tourism and Environment Policy Director Waheed, and Chinese Ambassador Qi Zhenhong, joined the event alongside government officials, tourism stakeholders, and media representatives.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya expressed Sri Lanka’s gratitude to China for its ongoing support across infrastructure, education, and cultural exchange, while highlighting tourism as a key pillar for regional collaboration. Ambassador Qi underscored that tourism serves as a bridge for cultural understanding, adding that the centuries-old ties among the three nations make this partnership especially meaningful.

With tourism vital to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, the forum emphasised shared opportunities—from sustainable growth to creating seamless travel networks. Resorts such as OBLU Xperience Ailafushi and other partners may also gain visibility through growing interest in Maldives all inclusive offers, aligning with the forum’s vision for a stronger, interconnected tourism future.