Cairo:Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Dr. Hussein Issa attended the opening of the first edition of the Al-Ahram Forum for Egyptian Tourism at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. Organized by Al-Ahram Foundation and held under the patronage of Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, the forum is themed 'Egyptian Tourism... From Diversifying Destinations to Enhancing Sustainable Global Competitiveness.'
According to State Information Service Egypt, the event was attended by prominent figures including Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy, Minister of Civil Aviation Dr. Sameh El-Hefny, Chairman of Al-Ahram Foundation Dr. Mohamed Fayez Farhat, and Editor-in-Chief of Al-Ahram Newspaper Majed Mounir. Leaders and experts from the tourism sector, as well as representatives from tourism chambers and the private sector, were also present.
In his speech, Dr. Hussein Issa expressed gratitude to the Al-Ahram Foundation for initiating the forum, which aligns with World Tourism Day celebrations. He emphasized the forum's role as a platform for dialogue on tourism and economic issues, bringing together government representatives, the private sector, experts, and media to discuss the future of Egyptian tourism and enhance its international competitiveness.
Dr. Issa highlighted tourism as a critical economic activity, vital for generating foreign currency, attracting investment, and creating jobs. He pointed out Egypt€™s unique tourism offerings, including cultural, religious, and environmental tourism, underpinned by a rich heritage, the Nile River, beautiful beaches, and diverse natural sites.
He stressed the need for ongoing efforts to boost the competitiveness of Egypt's tourism products. This includes developing destinations, improving service quality, stimulating investment, enhancing air connectivity, and leveraging digital transformation, all while maintaining sustainability and preserving cultural and natural resources.
Dr. Issa noted that the state is committed to developing the legislative and investment environment, providing necessary infrastructure, and promoting growth. He acknowledged the private sector's role in investment and innovation, the experts' contribution of knowledge, and the media's role in promoting Egypt's tourism.
He concluded by emphasizing the importance of the forum's outcomes in generating actionable recommendations to support the state's efforts in transforming Egypt's tourism assets into a robust economic force that fosters investment and job creation.