Greece – US to Set Up Working Group for Cooperation in Tourism

Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni and US Ambassador to Greece George J Tsunis. Photo source: Tourism Ministry

Greece and the US agreed to set up a working group that will be responsible for addressing tourism issues, announced the Greek Tourism Ministry this week.

The decision followed a meeting this week between Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni and US Ambassador to Greece George J Tsunis, who was accompanied by US Embassy Athens Consul General Benjamin Ousley Naseman.

A key issue discussed was the possibility of extending flights between the US and Greece to more destinations in 2024 as well as investment opportunities in tourism for US entrepreneurs.

Kefalogianni went on to brief the ambassador on ministry priorities, which include further developing cruise tourism and improving the management of destinations which welcome passengers.

Photo source: Tourism Ministry

She also underlined the importance of sustainable practices in tourism and added that  key priorities included extending the tourism season, as well as promoting lesser-known destinations and special interest products to the US market.

Other top priorities for the ministry include upgrading the country’s marinas, ski resorts, creating diving parks and ensuring accessibility to beaches.

Lastly, Kefalogianni referred to the need for improved tourism training opportunities in order to address staff shortages affecting the industry especially during the summer months.