The conference on "Tourism: A Catalyst for Development Peace and Reconciliation" will be held at Pasikudah in Batticaloa from 11th to 14th July 2016 with the technical assistance of the UN World Trade Organization (UNWTO). About 100 foreigners including resource persons and journalists are expected to attend the conference.

Prominent personalities including the Secretary General of the UNWTO, and Nobel Prize winner Dr. Muhammad Yunus will participate in the event, the government said.

Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal made by Minister of Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs John Amaratunga to hold the conference as a main component of the golden jubilee celebration of the Sri Lankas tourism industry.