UK Trade Envoy Hails SL's Resilience & Tourism Potential at WTM 📈

• UK Trade Envoy for Sri Lanka, Lord John Hannett, praised Sri Lanka's "story of strength and renewal" at the World Travel Market (WTM) in London, commending the nation's optimism and ambition in its post-crisis recovery. • The tourism sector was highlighted for its excellence, innovation, and resilience, acting as both a key economic driver and a "bridge between different cultures." The UK remains a consistent top source of international visitors to Sri Lanka. • UK reaffirmed its commitment to deepening trade and tourism partnerships through key collaborations: • The Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS). • The UK’s Ocean Country Partnership Program, which supports the expansion of Sri Lanka's "blue economy" by tackling marine pollution and promoting sustainable seafood. • Sri Lanka was specifically identified as one of the world's 36 global tourism hotspots for its beaches and water sports. • Lord Hannett also recognised the vital role of the Sri Lankan diaspora and the continued deepening of ties through thousands of SL students pursuing higher education in the UK annually.