No Special Security for Israeli Tourists in Sri Lanka – Cabinet Spokesman

Cabinet Spokesman Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa clarified today (Aug 5) that Israeli nationals visiting Sri Lanka as tourists are not being provided any special security measures beyond standard protections extended to all foreign visitors.

Addressing the weekly Cabinet media briefing, Dr. Jayatissa stated that the police and tri-forces are ensuring the safety of tourists in areas like Arugam Bay, where several Israeli nationals are currently staying. “They are given security simply because they are tourists, not due to any special status,” he said.

The Minister emphasized that the government has a duty to safeguard all tourists, whether they are traveling alone or in groups, irrespective of their country of origin. “If tourists are gathering in a particular area, we are committed to providing standard protection to maintain their safety. This applies equally to all foreigners,” he explained.

His comments come in the wake of reports suggesting that the government was facing pressure from senior officials in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to grant visa-free entry to Israeli citizens.

In response, Dr. Jayatissa explained that the visa-free entry list was developed in collaboration with the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism. He said the decision was based on key metrics such as the number of tourist arrivals and foreign exchange earnings from those countries. “We did not single out or favor any country. The inclusion of countries on the visa-free list was driven by clear economic indicators,” he added.

On a related note, the Minister addressed concerns regarding aviation links with Israel, stating that although former Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva had approved security measures for Israeli aircraft, no such flights have arrived since May last year. However, discussions are ongoing to possibly resume direct flights between the two countries later this year.