PRESIDENT LAUNCHES ITC RATNADIPA

The highly anticipated super-luxury ITC Ratnadipa, the first international venture of the renowned ITC Hotel chain from India, made its debut in the capital city of Colombo today (25 April), with the formal launch ceremony graced by the patronage of His Excellency President Ranil Wickremesinghe. This momentous occasion signifies a significant milestone for ITC, as it marks their inaugural venture into international hospitality, extending their esteemed reputation beyond the borders of India for the very first time.

At the invitation of the Chairman and Managing Director of ITC Ltd, Mr. Sanjiv Puri, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil and his spouse Mrs. Sujeewa Nelson attended the gracious occasion.

Addressing the gathering, President Ranil Wickremasinghe expressed his deep appreciation to the esteemed audience, acknowledging the significant expansion of ITC Ltd.’s hospitality enterprise in Sri Lanka. He emphasized the government's enthusiasm for further collaboration with ITC, revealing plans to explore the establishment of another hotel within the ITC chain in the southern region of the island.

The President highlighted the potential benefits of such a venture, noting that locating the new hotel in Sri Lanka would cater to the preferences of South Indian visitors seeking the familiar warmth of hospitality offered by North Indian destinations. This strategic move would not only enhance tourism opportunities but also strengthen cultural ties between the regions.

The ITC Ratnadipa Hotel project is a noteworthy venture as it signifies the maiden development in Sri Lanka by WelcomHotels Lanka Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of the prestigious ITC Ltd.

The introduction of this super-luxury hotel promises a new level of opulence and service excellence in Colombo, catering to discerning travellers seeking an indulgent and world-class experience. ITC Ltd.’s hospitality enterprise boasts an impressive array of eight top-class restaurants, each dedicated to offering scrumptious, delicious, and authentic cuisine representative of their respective categories. From traditional flavors to innovative culinary experiences, these restaurants ensure an unparalleled dining experience for guests, showcasing the best of each cuisine in an ambiance of luxury and excellence.

The hotel, standing tall at 30 stories, accompanied by a 50-story residence and connected by a sky bridge soaring 100 meters above ground, is not just a symbol of luxury but also an engineering marvel. Recognized as a 'strategic development project,' the venture is entitled to various fiscal benefits in Sri Lanka, further solidifying its importance in the country's economic landscape.

Among the distinguished attendees at the event were notable figures such as the 4th Executive President of Sri Lanka, Mrs. Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga, and the 7th Executive President of Sri Lanka, Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena together with His Excellency the High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka Mr. Santosh Jha who graced the occasion as the guests of honour, along with highlevel diplomats, cabinet ministers, parliamentarians, and esteemed guests, witnessed to this historic moment, affirming the significance of ITC Ratnadipa in shaping Colombo's hospitality industry.