Sri Lanka’s tourism recovery continues to gain strong momentum, with total arrivals reaching 2,258,202 visitors from January to 21 December 2025, reflecting renewed global confidence in the destination.

Provisional data shows that 154,609 tourists arrived between 1 and 21 December 2025 alone, underlining strong demand during the peak travel season.

This milestone marks another positive step forward for Sri Lanka’s tourism industry and national economy.

With USD 2.4 million in assistance, the Maldives has provided the largest aid contribution to Sri Lanka.

Foreign Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel states Maldivians have raised over USD 2.4 million in donations for Sri Lanka to support its residents in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah.

Speaking at the handover ceremony after accepting the donations on behalf of the Maldivian government, Foreign Minister Khaleel said the substantial funds raised during the telethon reflect the strong bonds of brotherly ties between Maldivians and Sri Lankans. He added it is proof the Maldives will be ready to assist at any time a neighbouring nation calls out for help.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasized that this year’s budget has allocated the highest capital expenditure by a government in recent history for development activities, amounting to nearly Rs. 1,400 billion. 

The President stated that it is the responsibility of both the political leadership and state officials to ensure that these funds are utilized effectively to meet the economic growth targets before the end of this year.

President Dissanayake further stated that the general public, who are not involved, have fallen victim to the choices made by the political authority and state officials, stressing that this situation must not persist.

The President made these remarks yesterday while attending the Matara District Special Coordination Committee meeting held at the auditorium of the Matara District Secretariat.

Highlighting that the government expects an economic growth rate of 5% this year, the President stated that increased state investments will contribute significantly to this growth.