The contribution of tourism in the development and reconstruction of Greece was reported today by Tourism Minister Ms. Olga Kefalogianni, speaking at an event-meeting with accredited ambassadors of foreign states, in Greece.

Ms. Kefalogianni noted that tourism is a sector which has the potential to be instrumental in the development of the economy. She also expressed her optimism that 2014 will be an even better year for tourism in Greece.

According to the announcement, the tourism minister presented a national strategic action plan for Greek tourism, based on four key pillars:

First. Development of a modern institutional framework for tourism, with a focus on specific forms of tourism (marine, medical, religious, sports and conventions tourism).

Second. Fostering entrepreneurship and facilitating investment by deploying the funds of the new ESPA.

Third. Ensuring quality in tourism infrastructure and services in the country.

Fourth. Investing in human capital.

Ms. Kefalogianni also cited interest of foreign investors in Greece, stressing that at the heart of the ministry is to establish an investment-friendly environment in the tourism sector. The goal, she said, is the attraction and facilitation of investment through a modern legal framework and the simplification of procedures.

She added that focus has been given on new forms of tourism investments, such as composite tourist accomodations.

Referring to the promotion of the country to international markets, she noted the new marketing strategy that focuses on countries such as Brazil, Russia, India and China. At the same time she stressed that Greece strengthens existing relationships with traditional markets such as Germany, France, Great Britain, enriching the domestic tourism product with modern forms of tourism (cruises, health-wellness, cultural tourism, etc).