SL still hopeful of hosting CITES World Wildlife Conference in May

The country’s tourism authorities are hopeful of hosting the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora’s (CITES) World Wildlife Conference next month where over 3,000 foreign delegates and media are expected to attend despite yesterday’s attacks targeting churches and hotels on Easter Sunday. 

Speaking to Mirror Business, Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) and Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) Chairman Kishu Gomes said that no decision has been made regarding CITES following the attacks.

However, he was optimistic that Sri Lanka would be given the opportunity to host the conference as the security in the country has been restored. 

“No decisions has been made on CITES, whether we will cancel or go ahead with it. That decision can be taken in several days from now. I don’t think there will be a cancellation as the situation is under control now,” he stressed. 

The CITES is scheduled to be held from May 23 to June 3 at the BMICH in Colombo.