Greece and Italy to Modernize 1986 Tourism Pact

Italy’s Ambassador in Greece Paolo Cuculi and Minister of Tourism Olga Kefalogianni. Photo source: Tourism Ministry

Greece and Italy have agreed to elevate their tourism cooperation by renewing an agreement originally established in 1986, according to an announcement by the Greek Tourism Ministry.

The decision was made following a meeting on Friday between Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni and Italian Ambassador to Athens, Paolo Cuculi. The renewed agreement will incorporate updated data and priorities for tourism collaboration between the two countries.

Both sides expressed a strong commitment to further strengthen their tourism relationship through synergies, sharing expertise, and jointly addressing challenges. They aim to foster greater collaboration in areas such as tourism promotion, know-how exchange, and sustainable tourism.

Photo source: Tourism Ministry

Ambassador Cuculi emphasized the significant potential for cooperation, highlighting the value of leveraging the rich cultural capital of both countries. He also stressed that joint efforts could lead to increased tourism from distant markets, enhancing the tourism sectors in both Greece and Italy.

On her part, Minister Kefalogianni reiterated Greece’s interest in drawing on Italy’s experience, particularly in promoting lesser-known destinations, an area in which Italy has excelled.

The two officials also agreed to plan an official visit by Kefalogianni to Italy, which would mark the beginning of more in-depth tourism collaboration. The visit is expected to take place soon and is anticipated to bolster ties between the two countries in the tourism sector.

Furthermore, the Greek tourism minister highlighted the importance of collaboration within the European Union framework. Kefalogianni referenced the recent appointments of Greek officials, such as Eliza Vozemberg, President of the European Parliament’s Transport and Tourism Committee, and Apostolos Tzitzikostas, who holds the portfolio for Sustainable Transport and Tourism in the European Commission. These developments, according to Kefalogianni, underline the significance of tourism as a driving force for economic growth in Europe.