Greece’s active role in shaping the global tourism agenda took center stage this week as Minister of Tourism Olga Kefalogianni represented the country at the 26th General Assembly of the UN World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) in Riyadh, held from Nov. 7–11.
In a series of high-level bilateral meetings, Kefalogianni reinforced Greece’s commitment to sustainable tourism and to forging stronger international partnerships with countries sharing similar values and development goals.
Her meeting with Spain’s Minister of Industry and Tourism, Jordi Hereu Boher, focused on European tourism policies and the governance framework of UN Tourism, headquartered in Madrid.
Kefalogianni proposed the creation of a dedicated EU funding line for tourism in the next programming period, underscoring the need for coordinated European initiatives in support of green and inclusive growth.
Talks with Armenia’s Minister of Economy, Gevorg Papoyan, highlighted mutual interest in advancing cooperation in tourism education, innovation, and digital transformation. The two sides agreed to convene the 6th Joint Tourism Committee to update their cooperation framework through a Joint Action Program for 2026–2028.
With Japan’s Deputy Commissioner for Tourism, Takeshi Nakano, discussions confirmed the excellent state of bilateral relations and focused on cultural exchange initiatives within the Greece–Japan Year of Culture and Tourism 2024, marked by Princess Kako’s visit to Corfu and Kefalogianni’s participation in Tourism Expo Japan.
Meetings with Jordan’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Emad Naim Hejazeen, centered on workforce training and potential staff exchanges to meet Greece’s seasonal labor needs, while exploring joint promotional efforts in emerging markets such as Africa.
Finally, Kefalogianni’s dialogue with Peru’s Deputy Minister of Tourism, Aracelly Laca Ramos, opened avenues for cooperation in cultural tourism, accessibility, and green hotel certification.
Through these engagements, Greece reaffirmed its leadership in global tourism diplomacy, advancing a clear vision built on collaboration, innovation, and sustainability — the pillars of its modern tourism strategy.
