Egypt backs tourism sector

Egyptian Minister of Tourism Mamdouh El-Beltagui said that the state has always been keen on backing tourism sector which is considered to be one of the most important economic sectors.

He added that tourism sector has proved its capability to vie in the international markets and proved a success in achieving strategic, social objectives for the state.

On tourism development, Beltagui said that it set out from Hurghada, the recent tourist destination that could achieve a success in luring tourists and has realized a positive impact on the national economy.

On banking loans due to be paid by investors in the tourism field, Beltagui said that the government has been working on rescheduling those loans to facilitate the crises undergone by investors after September 11 attacks.

This comes within the context of Beltagui's speech in the symposium organized by the Egyptian tourist writers association held in Hurghada yesterday.

On the other hand, a delegation of top journalists in France will pay a visit to Egypt upon an invitation extended by Beltagui in tandem with the Egyptian Media Bureau in Paris. The delegation will also comprise a number of French tourist bodies.

The delegation is due to meet with Foreign Minister Ahmad Maher, State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Fayza Abul-Naga, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Mohamed Sayed Tantawi, Pope of Alexandria and Saint Mark Diocese Shenouda III and other top officials.

Prime Minister Atef Ebeid will hold a meeting tomorrow with chairpersons of travel agencies and travel chambers association to discuss means of beefing up domestic and foreign tourism.

Also, Ebeid will discuss increasing resources for foreign currencies and measures to be taken to recompensate tourism sector for the losses brought about by September 11 attacks. Beltagui is due to participate in the meeting.