The current economic and political situation in the island nation, whereby there is a shortage of fuel, power, gas, the daily consumer needs along with the political unrest and treason in parts of the country, has compelled Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) to postpone the Convention in Colombo,” said TAAI President Jyoti Mayal while speaking on this adverse situation.
“Tourism is always the first to be hit at the outset of any crisis, but we continue to stand strong and committed to our counterparts in Sri Lanka to revive tourism as soon as the opportunity arises by rescheduling the convention,” she added.
She further informed that the Convention had an overwhelming response which had crossed the 500-registration mark. Sri Lankan Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) and Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO), along with Sri Lankan Airlines and, the Hotels in Colombo, were eager to host the Indian Travel Congress for the Convention, as was TAAI.
“We received numerous calls, and communications from our member delegates, invitees and stakeholders that the sentiment to travel to Sri Lanka at this time would not only burden our Sri Lankan friends but also on the uncertainty on the hosting of the convention in Colombo,” added Jay Bhatia, Vice President, TAAI.
Bettaiah Lokesh, HSG, TAAI stated, “As per the feedback and suggestions received, the Managing Committee of TAAI has decided to postpone the 66th Convention, which was to be held from 19th-22nd April 2022 in Colombo Sri Lanka, to a future date, which shall be communicated to all in due course, once the situation in Sri Lanka regularizes.”
“We have always maintained that tourism is a catalyst that bridges the gap between nations and economies, and we assure you all that as soon as the situation in Sri Lanka comes back to normal, new dates for a grander convention shall be announced in association with SLTPB and SLAITO,” stated Shreeram Patel, Hon. National Treasurer of TAAI.
