The United Nations World Tourism Organisation and Libyan ministry of tourism have signed an agreement outlining the development and phased implementation of a tourism strategy and action plan.

Under the agreement UNWTO will provide support to Libya´s ministry of tourism in its strategic tourism development through institutional building and governance, sustainable development, marketing and human resource development.

Priority will be given to institutional building and governance, with technical support focused on developing a cohesive tourism policy, strategy and action plan, as well as updating the sector´s legislative and regulatory frameworks and strengthening its organisational structure.

“This agreement is a very positive step in reviving Libya´s tourism sector and affirms UNWTO´s commitment to Libya during this time of national rebuilding.

“Tourism will enhance the country´s global image and contribute to its sustainable economic growth and development,” said UNWTO secretary general, Taleb Rifai.

The cooperation agreement will build on Libya´s ministry of tourism action plan towards sustainable tourism development with the support of the public and private sector.

The agreement was the result of the UNWTO mission to Tripoli in June 2013 to assess the specific needs of Libya’s tourism sector.

“Libya has great potential for tourism, it was a tourism destination in the 60s and we want to prioritise rebuilding the country´s tourism sector.

“Tourism provides great opportunity for investment and employment and will give a better face for Libya,” said Libya tourism minister Ikram Bash Imam.

“By joining hands with UNWTO, we will work to implement our plan for sustainable tourism development.”