Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Ahmed Issa has issued a decree mandating that all hospitality and marine activity providers in the Red Sea governorate obtain green certification in a groundbreaking move aimed at fostering sustainable tourism practices. This decree, which underscores Egypt’s commitment to environmental stewardship, coincides with a significant milestone in Egypt-Belarus relations.
During a recent visit to Cairo by Belarusian Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko, several memoranda of understanding (MoU) were signed to strengthen economic cooperation, particularly in investment, trade, and tourism sectors. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli highlighted the importance of developing water technology exchange programs, an initiative that aligns with Egypt’s efforts to promote sustainable practices in various sectors, including tourism.
The certification, to be issued by recognised international or local authorities, signifies a pivotal step towards integrating eco-friendly practices into Egypt’s tourism industry, in line with the Ministry’s Sustainable Development Strategy and Egypt’s Vision 2030. Notably, a similar mandate was successfully implemented in Sharm El-Sheikh in 2022, demonstrating Egypt’s commitment to environmental conservation.
The timing of this decree is significant, as it comes amidst efforts to bolster economic ties with Belarus, a key trading partner. The agreements signed during Golovchenko’s visit aim to enhance bilateral trade and investment opportunities between the two countries. Egypt’s status as the second most popular destination for Belarusian tourists underscores the importance of sustainable tourism practices in maintaining and expanding tourism revenues.
As Egypt and Belarus deepen their economic cooperation, initiatives like the green certification mandate serve as a testament to Egypt’s dedication to sustainable development. By intertwining environmental considerations with economic partnerships, Egypt is poised to lead by example in promoting responsible tourism practices while fostering mutually beneficial relationships with its international partners.
