During the ceremonial opening of the ITC Ratnadipa Hotel at Galle Face Green, President Ranil Wickremesinghe outlined his vision for Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and sustainable growth. The event marked a significant milestone as ITC Ratnadipa is the first hotel by the ITC Hotel Group outside India, positioning itself among prestigious neighbors like the historic Galle Face Hotel, the Taj Hotel, and the Shangri-La Hotel.
In his address, President Wickremesinghe welcomed ITC to Sri Lanka and discussed the strategic location of the new hotel, which he believes offers a unique experience unparalleled in Asia. He highlighted the ongoing Cinnamon Life project nearby and reminisced about the contributions of Indian establishments to the local tourism sector from early on.
The president reflected on the severe economic challenges faced by the nation two years ago, including the raid on the former president’s office and the resulting unrest. He commended the substantial progress made since then, emphasizing that the swift reconstruction efforts have significantly improved the economy and stabilized the nation.
Looking forward, President Wickremesinghe revealed plans to transform key historical sites in Colombo into vital components of the new Colombo Tourist City. This includes relocating the President’s House to the Madiwela area within the next decade, which is part of a broader initiative to boost tourism and economic activity in the region.
Expressing confidence in the tourism sector’s role in economic revitalization, President Wickremesinghe committed to supporting and providing the necessary facilities to enhance Sri Lanka’s appeal as a global tourist destination. He affirmed that these efforts aim to ensure long-term stability and prosperity for all Sri Lankans.
The event was attended by Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, former Presidents Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga and Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, several ministers, and dignitaries including Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha, underscoring the importance of this venture in strengthening bilateral ties and promoting international tourism.
