Jordan, Cyprus Explore Tourism Collaboration

Amman: Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Makram Qaisi, on Wednesday met with Cypriot Deputy Minister of Tourism, Kostas Koumis, to discuss enhancing bilateral relations. During the meeting, Qaisi underlined Jordan's "unique" Christian religious tourism product, particularly the site where Jesus was baptized, which complements Cyprus's beach tourism, noting the potential for providing visitors with a "distinguished" tourist experience. Koumis said both countries have the opportunity to attract Western tourists, especially from North America, under joint promotional efforts and smooth mutual travel. Both ministers agreed on the importance of formalizing their joint cooperation within a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to "institutionalize" their relations. After finalizing the MoU terms, Qaisi stated that workshops would be held between the two countries' private sectors to develop joint programs. Qaisi said the ministry prioritizes regional cooperation and the "historic" ties between Jordan and Cyprus , indicating the importance of setting a timetable for implementing their collaboration despite the ongoing crisis. The memo will feature provisions for hotel and tourism training courses in Cyprus for Jordanians, create job opportunities in the Cypriot tourism sector, and exchange expertise in archaeological and heritage site restoration. A team was formed during the meeting to oversee implementation of the agreement and establish a timeline for its completion and signing in the near future, according to a Tourism Ministry statement. Source: Jordan News Agency