Minister of Tourism Prasanna Ranatunga says all preparations are in place to officially reopen airports and the country to tourists by the end of January 2021, while strictly adhering to COVID-19 health guidelines.

The Minister said the official date will be made known in the near future. Minister Ranatunga made this revelation at a discussion held today with representatives of hotels, airlines, tour group organisers, tour guides and drivers.

Discussions also focused on the measures that should be followed when tourists are granted entry to the country.

The Minister noted that more than 3 million persons are affected as a result of the impact the coronavirus has had on the tourism industry.