Lisbon, Riyadh to Promote Integrated Tourism Sector Partnership

Lisbon, Riyadh to Promote Integrated Tourism Sector Partnership

Rita Marques, secretary of state for Tourism of Portugal, revealed that her country is eyeing the conclusion of an agreement with Saudi Arabia in the field of international air transport soon.

Marques pointed out that her participation at the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit, which was recently held in Riyadh, had presented a vital occasion to share ideas that promote common points, such as sustainable tourism.

She affirmed Portugal’s readiness to share its best practices and help in designing training exchange programs with Saudi Arabia. This comes to establish prolific dialogue and cooperation between the two countries.

It is fruitful to be able to conclude an international air transport agreement between Portugal and the Kingdom, and to cooperate on future trends and policies such as sustainability, digitization, or forms of attracting investment for innovation and research, stressed Marques.

Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Marques pointed to the role played by the tourism sector in enhancing ties between countries.

She highlighted Saudi Arabia and Portugal’s ability to develop cooperation, share good practices, exchange knowledge, and build skills development programs. The two countries can do so alongside their plans and programs related to sustainability and innovation, added Marques.

Regarding trade between Portugal and the Kingdom, Marques