The World Tourism Organisation has praised Spain as a “world leader” for its approach to restarting tourism as most of the world heads out of lockdown – Spain recently announced a €4.25 billion package to support and stimulate its tourism industry.
Spanish President Pedro Sanchez said: “Tourism is a strategic sector for our country. It is the backbone of our country and is a central part of our way of life. Tourism in Spain is not just something for others, it is ours.”
Spain has also established a ‘tourism intelligence observatory’ to use real-time data to adapt policies. It has also earmarked €38 million for tourism promotion to both international and domestic travellers.
Airports authority Aena has also agreed to cuts its landing charges.
UNTWO Secretary-General Pololikashvili said: “By restarting tourism, and doing so in a responsible manner that protects the most vulnerable while safeguarding jobs and economic growth, Spain can send a strong signal to the rest of the world. The country has long been a global tourism leader, and I thank President Sanchez for again stepping up and setting an example for other countries to follow.”
