AMMAN — Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Makram Al-Qaisi stated that the tourism sector's contribution to Jordan's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2023 was 15.6 percent, highlighting its pivotal role as the primary engine of the nation's economy, Al-Mamlaka TV reported.
اضافة اعلان
During a press conference attended by the
Secretary-General of UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Zurab
Pololikashvili, Qaisi acknowledged the widespread impact of Israel's war on the
Gaza Strip across various economic sectors, particularly on tourism. Despite
this challenge, he noted that Jordan did not close its borders or restrict air
travel amidst the ongoing war. However, he pointed out a discernible shift in
the attitudes and preferences of foreign tourists, largely influenced by the
war's proximity to Jordan.
Additionally, Qaisi touched on the
significance of the Secretary-General of UNWTO’s visit to Jordan, noting that
it occurred during a particularly challenging period for both Jordan and the
wider region, which has adversely affected crucial tourism metrics, such as a
reduction in visitor numbers and a decline in tourism income.
For his part, Pololikashvili emphasized
Jordan's significance as a pivotal tourist destination, highlighting the
crucial importance of supporting its tourism sector. Additionally, he noted the
postponement of certain project plans due to recent regional developments,
underscoring the urgent need to halt the war on Gaza. Pololikashvili also
pointed out the inseparable link between security and tourism, portraying them
as ‘interconnected facets of the same issue’.
He further highlighted China's role as a significant
partner for the organization, urging Jordan to prioritize and enhance the
Jordanian-Chinese partnership within the tourism sector.
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