ZIMBABWE which was participating at the Travel Turkey Fair (TTF) for the first time is expected to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Turkey on the entire and promotion.
The TTF came at a time when the country is on an aggressive tourism marketing campaign and reengagement drive meant to uplift
Environment, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Priscah Mupfumira who is leading the Zimbabwe delegation said the MOU will further strengthen already existing relations between the two countries.
“We value the relations that exist between the two countries, Zimbabwe and Turkey. We look forward to the signing of the MOU which we believe will contribute immensely to the development and promotion of tourism in both countries.
“The agreement will witness a number of deliverables such as destination marketing and promotion, sustainable tourism promotion, investment promotion, media and travel trade development as well as cultural and technical exchanges in the field of tourism,” she said.
The Travel Turkey Fair is rated among the most significant tourism meetings in the world, drawing delegates from at least 60countries who will be seeking linkages and innovative ideas to grow the industry.
This fair provided an important opportunity for Zimbabwe tourism that could go a long way in unlocking potential to at least 35 milliontravellers.
And while it may have been Zimbabwe’s maiden participation, but that did not limit the dazzle as its exhibition display was captivating which helped in drawing lots of crowds to the stand including tour agencies and buyers.
Meanwhile, Minister Mupfumira is also taking advantage of this mission to further negotiate with Turkish Airlines for a possible resuscitation of its flights to Zimbabwe.
The Turkish market has not been a good performer for the country owing to a cocktail of challenges including lack of information and knowledge on the destination among others.
However, the Minister is optimistic of a positive change owing to the various reengagement activities taking place including Travel Turkey Fair among others.
Lack of a variety of international airlines coming to Zimbabwe has been identified as one the reasons why there was drop in the number of arrivals in the past years.
