The Sri Lankan Ministry of Ports, Shipping and
Aviation said that the Norwegian ship Vikingmas carrying 700 tourists and 450
crew arrived at Colombo port on November 18th after the Corona and
economic crisis that lasted for two and a half years.
International tourism is
one of major revenue earners for the Sri Lankan government. The island nation
is eyeing on the arrival of Chinese tourists this year.
Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala
de Silva and Tourism Minister Harin Fernando and others came to the passenger
jetty of the port to welcome this ship.
The ministry said the ship, which came from Goa,
India, is anchored at the port of Colombo for 24 hours. A special program has
been set up to provide them with the necessary customs, immigration and duty
shopping facilities.