New Delhi, Jan 7 (UNI) India, Sri Lanka, The Maldives and Nepal will hold a joint discussion as soon as possible, to determine the possible course of action for the revival of Tourism industry in the region.

India and Sri Lanka decided this during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's discussion with the island nation's government in Colombo.

The two sides agreed on the need to revive the tourism sector, which was crippled in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic.

India has proposed to resume tourism and aviation activities with appropriate COVID-19 restrictions, through the travel bubble concept.

'The Maldives continues to attract tourists following the bio-bubble method. A large number of Indians have already gone there.

'People like to travel in order to get rid of the stress caused by the pandemic. Hotels in New Delhi are now brimming with Indians. We can encourage them to visit Sri Lanka,' the island's official website quoted Mr Jaishankar as saying.

Mr Jaishankar on Thursday met business leaders of Sri Lanka and took note of their suggestions for economic cooperation between the countries.

"A very useful interaction with business leaders of Sri Lanka. Appreciated their insights and suggestions on economic cooperation," the EAM tweeted.

Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena after talks with his Indian counterpart on Wednesday said the Indian Government's 'Neighbourhood First' policy made a very positive impact on Sri Lanka's economy during the critical period and unprecedented crisis.

He invited substantial increases in Indian foreign direct investment, especially in the proposed pharmaceutical and textiles manufacturing zones.

UNI SRJ RJ 1918