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Expo 2020 Dubai: No high-level SL delegation at opening?

02 Oct 2021

Expo 2020 Dubai, the first major global event open to visitors since the coronavirus pandemic, kicked off last week with much fanfare, and is seen as an opportunity for industries and countries to showcase their offers and help boost tourism. However, the launch of the Sri Lanka pavilion at the event, built by the UAE at a significant cost, was not attended by any senior government figures, The Sunday Morning learnt. Most countries had a relevant minister present to open their pavilions aimed at encouraging tourism and investment. Expatriates in Dubai told The Sunday Morning that it was a lost opportunity for the country that was in need of drawing in tourism and foreign currency. “Even the Chief Guest for the opening of the pavilion came late,” a concerned Sri Lankan said. When questioned whether the event was represented by state officials, Minister of Tourism Prasanna Ranatunga told The Sunday Morning that the pavilion for the global event was organised and co-ordinated by the Sri Lankan Embassy in the UAE.


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