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Minister Angelkova and her Israeli counterpart Yariv Levin discussed in Tel Aviv joint actions to increase tourists
A joint task group between Bulgaria and Israel will be set up. Its purpose will be to promote development of tourism and increase the number of travellers between the two countries. This was stated by the Minister of Tourism, Nikolina Angelkova, during a work meeting with Yariv Levin, State of Israel’s minister of tourism. The two talked during the IMTM tourism exposition in Tel Aviv.
208 141 Israeli tourists visited Bulgaria in 2017. We are registering a nearly 14% growth compared to the previous year, said Minister Angelkova. Israel is a key partner of Bulgaria, with great prospects. Minister Angelkova showcased to the Israeli minister of tourism the positive data about the sector’s development in Bulgaria. Visits of international tourists exceeded 8.8 mil. throughout 2017. The reported growth is 7.6% compared to the previous year. In total, over 630 700 international visitors came to Bulgaria last year, the Minister explained.
Another point of discussion was tapping the country’s potential as a four-season tourism destination. Spa, wellness, and medical spa tourism are the major development drivers for the Bulgarian health and medical tourism, which is a priority for the Ministry, stated Minister Angelkova.
She invited her Israeli counterpart to the second edition of the International Congress on World Civilizations and Ancient Routes“. The forum is scheduled to be held in Sofia in November. The event is jointly organized by the Ministry of Tourism and the UN World Tourism Organization.
The Minister presented to Mr. Levin our priorities during Bulgaria’s presidency of the EU Council. She explained that this is exceptionally important for tourism since our country will be in the limelight of Europe’s attention. We will demonstrate that Bulgaria is a preferred tourism destination offering a high-grade, diverse product. Our objective is to showcase our country to the visitors as much as possible, we will use all potential directions – Sofia, Varna, Bourgas, among others, added Minister Angelkova.
Yariv Levin rated positively Ministry of Tourism’s work during the presidency. He expressed his gratitude for the good relations between the two countries and stated his preparedness for cooperation and support in the implementation of initiatives going forwards. Minister Levin added that an increase in the flights to and from Bulgaria would boost tourism for both countries.
IMTM is the biggest and oldest tourism exhibition in the East Mediterranean, being held for the 21st time this year. 384 exhibitors from 46 countries participate in the event.
