France relaxes travel advisory against Sri Lanka

The government of France yesterday relaxed the travel advisory to Sri Lanka, from recommending ‘only essential travel’ to ‘exercise caution’.

The update was published by the French government a day after President Ranil Wickremesinghe announced that the state of emergency imposed in the country at present would not be further extended after August 18, 2022, as there is no major threat in the country.

Given the latest development in the island nation, the French government has recommended its citizens to maintain a high level of vigilance when travelling in Sri Lanka and in any case, avoid any gatherings, especially of a political nature.

It also urged the French tourists to go forward with the travel plans with the local travel agencies for inland travel, stating they are “best placed” to manage fuel supplies for registered tourist vehicles.

Commenting on the update, the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO) said the relaxation is much needed for the revival of Sri Lanka tourism and that it welcomes the move. In an effort to lure more travellers from France, the SLAITO is preparing to take part in the IFTM Paris Tourism Show next month.