A discussion on the Tourism Needs Assessment of the Northern Province, conducted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), was held this evening (Friday, 25 July 2025) at the Governor’s Secretariat. The meeting was chaired by the Honorable Governor of the Northern Province, Mr. N. Vethanayahan.
Speaking at the outset of the discussion, the Honorable Governor stated that the Northern Province holds significant potential for tourism. He noted that many investors are showing interest in the region’s tourism sector and emphasized that the World Bank is supporting infrastructure development efforts to further promote tourism in the province.
This initiative was made possible through the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), following our request and with the guidance of the External Resources Department (ERD). We express our sincere gratitude for the commitment and thoughtful engagement demonstrated throughout this process.
I extend our sincere gratitude to His Excellency the President for recognizing the significance of sustainable tourism in our region and for the thoughtful consideration given to this initiative.
We firmly believe that this initiative will help shape a comprehensive plan to foster ecotourism, preserve our natural and cultural heritage, and make a meaningful contribution to both provincial and national economic growth. Let us seize this opportunity to pave the way for a vibrant and sustainable future for tourism in the Northern Province,” the Governor remarked
Following the Governor’s remarks, UNDP experts presented the findings of their Tourism Needs Assessment. This was followed by an in-depth discussion, including how best to implement the proposed recommendations.
The Governor noted that, unlike other provinces which retained basic tourism infrastructure even during the war, the Northern Province lacked such facilities. He expressed hope that the implementation of the current plan would mark a significant milestone in the development of the province’s tourism sector.
Participating in the discussion were the Secretary to the Governor of the Northern Province, the Secretary to the Ministry of Local Government, District Secretaries, representatives from the UNDP, a representative of the Chairman of the Jaffna District Coordination Committee, officials from the Urban Development Authority, the Chairman of the Northern Province Tourism Board, and representatives from the Departments of Forestry and Wildlife, Archaeology, and several other relevant institutions.
