Egyptian Tourism Minister Shreef Fathy met with Maltese Tourism Minister to discuss ways to enhance cooperation between the two countries in the tourism sector. The meeting took place in Valletta, Malta, on the sidelines of the 26th World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit. The two ministers emphasized the importance of the tourism sector in supporting economies and promoting economic growth. They also highlighted the distinguished bilateral relations between Egypt and Malta.
During the meeting, Minister Fathy discussed the current strategy of the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism, which focuses on three main messages: showcasing Egypt as a destination with unparalleled tourism diversity, highlighting the authenticity of the Egyptian tourism experience, and promoting the high-quality products and experiences offered by the Egyptian tourism sector. He also showcased Egypt's diverse tourism products and experiences, which allow visitors to combine multiple experiences during a single trip.
Minister Fathy reported that Egypt's inbound tourism has seen significant growth, with a 21% increase during the previous year. He also noted that the sector has continued to grow, with a 4% increase in tourism arrivals from January to September of the current year. The minister's statement reflects the ongoing efforts of the Egyptian government to promote the country's tourism sector and attract more visitors.
The Maltese Tourism Minister reviewed the developments in his country's tourism sector, noting that Malta welcomed around 5 million tourists during the previous year. He also discussed the ongoing efforts to launch direct flights between Cairo and Malta through Air Malta. The two ministers agreed to enhance coordination between the private sectors in both countries to develop joint tourism programs targeting tourists from distant markets.
The meeting also touched on the potential for cooperation in the field of training, with Egypt and Malta exploring ways to exchange expertise and skills in the hospitality sector. The two countries discussed the possibility of establishing a temporary exhibition of Egyptian antiquities in Malta, which would help promote the Egyptian tourism destination and highlight the country's cultural and historical significance.
Minister Fathy and his Maltese counterpart also explored the possibility of organizing sea cruises in the Mediterranean, which would include visits to both Egypt and Malta. This initiative aims to attract more tourists from distant markets and provide them with a unique experience that combines the cultural and historical heritage of both countries.
The meeting between the two ministers reflects the ongoing efforts of Egypt and Malta to strengthen their cooperation in the tourism sector. The agreement to enhance coordination and develop joint tourism programs is expected to have a positive impact on the tourism industry in both countries, promoting economic growth and cultural exchange.
Key points
- Egypt's inbound tourism has increased by 21% compared to last season.
- The Egyptian government is promoting the country's tourism sector through a strategy that highlights its diverse tourism products and experiences.
- Egypt and Malta are exploring ways to enhance cooperation in the tourism sector, including the development of joint tourism programs and the exchange of expertise in the hospitality sector.
