By Zahid Karani
KARACHI: Sri Lanka has intensified efforts to boost its presence in Pakistan, particularly in Karachi, by organizing a major business-to-business (B2B) roadshow and networking evening focused on tourism. The event aimed to foster collaboration with the Pakistani travel industry and inject fresh energy into bilateral tourism relations.
Speaking at the occasion, Consul General of Sri Lanka in Karachi Sanjiva Patiwella said that historical, cultural, and friendly ties between Pakistan and Sri Lanka have always been strong. He invited Pakistani travelers to experience Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, beaches, forests, historical sites, and renowned hospitality, and thanked Pakistan for its humanitarian assistance following Cyclone Ditwa in November 2025.
Sri Lanka Convention Bureau Chairman Dhiraj Hatthiya Rachchi described Pakistan as a key market for Sri Lanka, noting that Pakistani tourists visit not only for leisure but also for business purposes, particularly benefiting from Sri Lanka’s MICE tourism facilities. SriLankan Airlines Pakistan Manager Rohan Wijekoon emphasized the airline’s commitment to improving air connectivity and facilitating travel through special fares and services.
The program was hosted by the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau in partnership with the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Employment and Tourism, the Sri Lankan Consulate General in Karachi, and SriLankan Airlines. A large number of Pakistani travel trade representatives attended, engaging with Sri Lankan delegates to explore new opportunities in tourism.
The Sri Lankan delegation included leading destination management companies, which briefed Pakistani tour operators on travel options, business tourism, group tours, and MICE activities—covering meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions. The event underscored that Sri Lanka is a safe and accessible year-round destination offering leisure, cultural experiences, natural beauty, and adventure for all types of travelers.
Highlighting the growing interest, it was noted that over 20,000 Pakistanis visited Sri Lanka in 2025, reflecting positive trends in bilateral tourism. SriLankan Airlines currently operates eight direct weekly flights between the two countries, four each from Karachi and Lahore, further easing travel. Improvements in visa facilitation and the revival of international travel have also contributed to rising Pakistani tourist interest.
The event featured a traditional Sri Lankan dance performance, giving attendees a glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. A separate media briefing highlighted emerging tourism trends and new facilities in Sri Lanka. The roadshow in Karachi highlighted Pakistan as an emerging outbound market with travelers seeking cultural, natural, adventurous, and business experiences.
Sri Lanka’s capacity to provide high-quality and unique experiences across these sectors positions it as a preferred destination, laying the foundation for stronger tourism, trade, and people-to-people ties between the two countries.
