Cyprus Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis participated in the Mediterranean Tourism Ministers’ Forum which concluded its works Wednesday in Valetta, Malta.

The Ministers discussed issues related to digital transformation and sustainable tourism development.

According to a Deputy Ministry press release, the Deputy Minister underlined the imperative need for climate change adaptation plans which will be realistic and feasible and also referred to the importance of digital transformation and the green transition.

He also submitted a proposal to extend the tourist season for the benefit of Mediterranean countries and citizens.

Participants recognised the contribution of digital transformation to the growing tourism development and the need to work together to address the challenges.

As regards climate change, the participants noted that an integrated plan is required that entails the cooperation of all Mediterranean countries. They agreed that tourism development should be done in the context of sustainability, respecting the need to protect the environment and the responsible management of natural resources.

In statements, Cyprus Deputy Minister said that "we must act immediately, collectively and in a coordinated manner on climate change with integrated policies and plans for climate crisis that are realistic and feasible."

Koumis noted that the implementation of policies that link tourism development with the principles of sustainability is now becoming even more imperative. Regarding digital transformation, he said that the correct use of smart technologies reduces production costs, improves efficiency and can act as the key to success for sustainable development.

The Deputy Minister submitted a proposal to the conference on the need for the Mediterranean countries, and especially the European ones, to cooperate with the aim of extending the tourist season, which would also work beneficially towards the effort made by most countries to prevent excessive tourism phenomena during the summer period.  

He added that the EU initiative for the development of social tourism, would help in this direction. The delegates at the Summit  expressed their intention to support the proposal and their strong desire for further discussion.