Minister of Trade, Industry & Tourism Nicos Rolandis chaired a meeting yesterday with representatives of the Cyprus Tourist Organisation, Cyprus Airways, the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce & Industry, the Cyprus Industrialists Federation, the Cyprus Hoteliers Association and other officials involved in the tourist sector.

Following the meeting, Mr. Rolandis stated that it is expected that Cyprus will be effected by a reduction of tourism over the first six-months of 2002 whilst a recovery is anticipated for the second six-month period of the year. Another issue raised was the pressure exerted on hoteliers and tour operators for the further reduction of prices, a matter for which an action plan will be prepared and discussed at a separate meeting.

Mr. Rolandis also stated that recommencement of cruises is a positive aspect and concerning the issue of time share, he stated that the government is taking all necessary steps towards alleviating inconvenience caused to a number of tourists to Cyprus.