In a significant move to enhance Ethiopia's tourism sector, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on Tuesday between the Ministry of Tourism, the Ethiopian Immigration and Citizenship Service, and Ethiopian Airlines. The agreement aims to promote stopover tourism, leveraging Ethiopia's strategic location and rich cultural heritage.

The MoU was signed by Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa, Ethiopian Immigration and Citizenship Service Director-General Selamawit Dawit, and Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew. The signing ceremony, held in Addis Ababa, marks a collaborative effort to position Ethiopia as a premier stopover destination.

Strategic Importance of Stopover Tourism

During the ceremony, Tourism Minister Selamawit Kassa highlighted the immense potential of stopover tourism. "Ethiopia boasts a plethora of tourist destinations, from historical sites to natural wonders. This agreement will help us capitalize on these assets and elevate our global standing in the tourism sector," she stated.

Ethiopia is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the ancient city of Aksum. The country's diverse landscapes, ranging from the Simien Mountains to the Danakil Depression, offer unique experiences for travelers. By promoting stopover tourism, Ethiopia aims to attract more visitors and showcase its rich cultural and natural heritage.

Ethiopian Immigration and Citizenship Service Director-General Selamawit Dawit emphasized the agency's commitment to facilitating travel for tourists. "We have been intensifying our efforts to streamline visa processes and make it easier for travelers to visit Ethiopia. Our data shows a significant increase in tourist arrivals, particularly in conference tourism," she noted.

The MoU is expected to further boost these efforts, making it more convenient for international travelers to explore Ethiopia during their layovers. The initiative aligns with the country's broader strategy to enhance its tourism infrastructure and services.

Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew underscored the airline's pivotal role in promoting Ethiopian tourism. "Ethiopian Airlines has been a key player in showcasing our heritage to the world. This MoU will enable us to strengthen our contributions and support the growth of the tourism sector," he said.

As Africa's largest airline, Ethiopian Airlines connects Addis Ababa to numerous international destinations, making it an ideal partner for promoting stopover tourism. The airline's extensive network and reputation for excellence provide a solid foundation for this initiative.

The signing of the MoU represents a collaborative effort to harness the potential of stopover tourism and drive growth in Ethiopia's tourism sector. By working together, the Ministry of Tourism, Ethiopian Immigration and Citizenship Service, and Ethiopian Airlines aim to create a seamless and enriching experience for travelers, ultimately contributing to the country's economic development.

This landmark agreement is a testament to Ethiopia's commitment to leveraging its unique assets and strategic location to become a leading destination for global travelers.

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Trilateral MOU signed to boost stopover tourism in Ethiopia