Colombo, Sri Lanka – 02 October 2026 – A pivotal discussion assessing the feasibility of developing a comprehensive master plan for the proposed Tourism for Heritage, Resilience, Inclusion and Value-driven Employment (THRIVE) Project took place today at the Ministry of Defence. The initiative aims to dramatically transform Colombo and the Western Province into a vibrant, inclusive, and economically dynamic tourism destination.
The high-level meeting was co-chaired by Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) and Secretary to the Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development Eng. (Dr) Asiri Karunawardena. The primary focus of the session was to deliberate on the practicality of crafting and implementing a detailed master plan for the THRIVE Project, placing particular emphasis on robust coordination and collaboration among all relevant government institutions and stakeholders.
Strategic Vision for Colombo and Western Province Tourism
The THRIVE Project represents a significant stride towards enhancing Sri Lanka’s tourism landscape, specifically targeting the capital and its surrounding Western Province. By focusing on heritage, resilience, inclusion, and value-driven employment, the project seeks to create sustainable growth and unlock the full potential of these regions as premier tourist attractions. Developing a comprehensive master plan is deemed essential to ensure a synchronized and impactful implementation.
Emphasis on Inter-Agency Collaboration and Security
During the discussion, Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd) underscored the critical importance of inter-agency collaboration in formulating holistic development plans. He particularly stressed the indispensable role of integrating security considerations into all tourism-related initiatives, ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for visitors.
Echoing these sentiments, Secretary to the Ministry of Transport, Highways and Urban Development Eng. (Dr) Asiri Karunawardena reiterated the necessity of close coordination among various institutions to effectively advance the proposed THRIVE Project. The collective engagement from diverse sectors is expected to streamline processes and overcome potential challenges.
Diverse Stakeholder Participation
The special discussion served as an invaluable platform for participating stakeholders to exchange diverse perspectives and identify key considerations crucial for the further assessment and successful development of the proposed THRIVE Project. The breadth of attendance highlighted the multi-sectoral commitment to this ambitious endeavour. Attendees included:
- Representatives from the World Bank
- Senior tri-forces and Sri Lanka Police officers
- Senior officials from the Ministries of Transport, Highways and Urban Development, and Foreign Affairs
- The Chairman of the Sri Lanka Land Development Corporation
- The Municipal Commissioner of the Colombo Municipal Council
- Officials from the Urban Development Authority (UDA)
- Officials from the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC)
- Officials from the Ministry of Defence
This collaborative approach signals a strong commitment from the government and its partners to harness tourism as a powerful engine for economic growth and inclusive development across Colombo and the Western Province.
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