REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, DENPASAR -- The government of Sri Lanka expressed interest in exploring and establishing cooperation in the fields of economy, culture, and tourism with Bali as it is viewed to have succeeded as an international tourist destination.
"Bali upholds the values of tolerance and its tourism is also growing at a rapid pace, thereby resulting in the community witnessing steady economic growth. Hence, I think cooperation with Bali will yield positive results for Sri Lanka," Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Indonesia Dharshana M Perera stated at a meeting with the Bali governor in Denpasar on Wednesday.
Perera said he was keen to establish cooperation with Bali as it has several cultural similarities. In addition, Sri Lanka is currently exploring cooperation with Garuda Indonesia to start direct flights from Colombo to Bali, as Sri Lankan tourists travelling to Bali from Colombo have to transit in Singapore or Kuala Lumpur.
Perera expressed optimism that direct flights from Colombo will have a positive impact on Bali's economic growth and tourism in both regions. Besides the plan to open direct flights, Perera also plans to collaborate with businesspersons in Bali as it is known for its carvings and handicrafts that can offer trade opportunities for the businessmen in Bali and Sri Lanka.
"Hence, we can explore several areas of potential in Bali, and I hope the cooperation will be established in future," Perera emphasized.
Bali Governor Made Mangku Pastika welcomed the aspirations of the Sri Lankan ambassador. According to Pastika, tourists from Bali are now opting to visit Sri Lanka as a spiritual travel destination. He also welcomed the planned opening of direct flights on the Bali-Colombo route to boost tourism in both countries.
On the occasion, Pastika, who was also accompanied by Head of Public Relations of the Secretariat of Bali Province Dewa Gede Mahendra Putra and Head of Government Secretariat of Bali Jayadi Jaya, offered inputs to Sri Lanka to utilize international events to promote Sri Lankan tourism.
"I welcome the excellent fabric of this cooperation, and I believe in future, this cooperation will have a positive impact on all of us," he added.
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