The Sri Lankan government has introduced a visa-free regime for citizens of more than 30 countries in a bid to boost the tourism industry. This is reported by Tehran Times, a partner of TV BRICS.

According to Transport Minister Bandula Gunawardana, visitors from these countries will be able to stay in Sri Lanka for 30 days. In addition, the visa fee of US$50 is cancelled. The new rules will start on 1 October this year and will be in pilot mode for six months.

The visa-free regime will apply to citizens of Russia, China, India, Iran and a number of states in the Middle East.

The Minister noted that the experience of other destinations popular on the world tourist market, such as Thailand, Vietnam and Singapore, was taken into account when developing the new rules. At the same time, the timing of the programme is from December to mid-April, during which the most favourable weather conditions are observed.

Thus, the Sri Lankan authorities expect to increase the attractiveness of the country among foreigners. It is expected that the development of tourism will contribute to the overall acceleration of economic growth.

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