Monday, July 7, 2025
In a bid to enhance bilateral tourism, Turkey and Greece have officially signed a Cooperation Agreement aimed at boosting tourism exchanges between the two countries. The agreement, which was finalized at the sixth Joint Tourism Committee Meeting, emphasizes expanding alternative tourism offerings, strengthening transport connectivity, and fostering closer economic and cultural relations.
The Significance of the Joint Tourism Committee Meeting
The sixth Joint Tourism Committee Meeting took place in Ankara and was co-chaired by Turkey’s Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism, Nadir Alpaslan, and Greece’s Deputy Tourism Minister, Anna Karamanli. This meeting underscored the ongoing commitment of both nations to collaborate in the tourism sector, aiming to further promote mutual understanding and growth in tourism flows between the two Mediterranean neighbors.
The meeting’s primary goal was to discuss the latest trends in the tourism sector and identify opportunities for collaboration. During his speech, Alpaslan highlighted the importance of diversifying tourism offerings beyond the traditional travel routes and working together to develop new, sustainable options for travelers.
Expanding Tourism Offerings: Rural and Coastal Tourism
A key theme of the discussions was the diversification of tourism products. Alpaslan proposed that Turkey and Greece collaborate in the development of rural and coastal tourism, two areas that have gained increasing attention in recent years due to their focus on sustainability and authenticity.
Both countries boast vast rural landscapes and picturesque coastlines that offer unique travel experiences. Alpaslan emphasized that such cooperation could address growing demand for more personalized, off-the-beaten-path travel experiences that connect tourists with local culture and nature. By tapping into agrotourism, which promotes rural traditions and activities, both countries can offer travelers an immersive experience that blends rural life with leisure.
Coastal tourism was also identified as a vital area of growth. With their stunning coastlines along the Aegean, Mediterranean, and Ionian Seas, both Turkey and Greece have an abundance of natural assets that attract millions of visitors each year. Alpaslan proposed joint marketing campaigns and development projects focused on expanding coastal tourism, ensuring that these areas continue to attract tourists while preserving their ecological integrity.
Visa-on-Arrival Scheme: A Gateway to Increased Tourism
Alpaslan also addressed the success of the visa-on-arrival scheme, which has been instrumental in facilitating cross-border travel between Turkey and Greece. In 2024, approximately 1.5 million Turkish citizens visited Greece, with the ease of obtaining a visa being a key factor in this increase. The scheme primarily applied to the Greek islands, where tourists from Turkey have increasingly sought out holiday experiences.
Alpaslan emphasized that expanding the scope of the visa-on-arrival program would benefit both countries by encouraging even greater flows of tourists. This simple yet effective policy allows travelers to bypass lengthy visa processes, making it easier for citizens of both countries to visit each other. The visa facilitation measures are expected to support growth in both inbound and outbound tourism, enhancing the economic and cultural ties between Turkey and Greece.
Growing Numbers: Tourism Traffic Between Turkey and Greece
The tourism flow between Turkey and Greece has been steadily increasing, with both nations benefiting from a growing number of visitors. As mentioned, in 2024, approximately 1.5 million Turkish nationals traveled to Greece, marking a notable increase compared to previous years. Similarly, around 700,000 Greek tourists visited Turkey in the same period.
These figures reflect the deepening relationship between the two countries in the tourism sector, driven by shared interests in promoting regional and cultural exchanges. Both Turkey and Greece have a long history of mutual ties and a rich cultural heritage, making them natural partners for boosting tourism. The signing of the new cooperation protocol aims to further expand these numbers and offer more varied and attractive tourism experiences.
Improving Transport Connectivity: Key to Tourism Growth
A significant part of the discussions centered around enhancing transport connectivity between Turkey and Greece. Alpaslan stressed that improving travel infrastructure would help make the movement of tourists between the two countries smoother and more comfortable. This includes the introduction of new routes, the expansion of existing services, and the improvement of transport links, particularly between major tourist destinations.
The ease of access between neighboring countries is crucial to boosting tourism. By improving air, rail, and road links, both nations can make it easier for tourists to explore each other’s cities, towns, and rural areas. Alpaslan noted that more direct flights between major cities and regions would contribute to this effort, facilitating greater mobility and increasing the overall comfort of tourists.
Such measures will not only make it easier for travelers to visit both countries but also contribute to deepening economic ties by encouraging cross-border tourism spending.
Agrotourism and Sustainable Travel: A Shared Focus
Sustainability is a key consideration in the new tourism cooperation protocol between Turkey and Greece. Both countries have recognized the growing trend towards sustainable travel and the increasing demand for environmentally friendly and responsible tourism options. Agrotourism, in particular, is seen as a way to combine tourism with environmental stewardship, showcasing rural traditions while promoting conservation and sustainable land use.
Alpaslan pointed out that rural tourism, including agrotourism, offers opportunities to highlight local food production, traditional farming practices, and cultural heritage. Both Turkey and Greece have extensive rural areas that are home to unique landscapes, authentic local experiences, and artisanal products. By promoting agrotourism, the countries can offer travelers an enriching experience while supporting local economies and sustainable development.
In the context of coastal tourism, both Turkey and Greece are committed to preserving their beautiful coastlines. Collaborative efforts to manage tourism in these areas will ensure that visitors can continue to enjoy the natural beauty of both countries while minimizing the impact on the environment.
Conclusion: A New Chapter in Turkey-Greece Tourism Relations
The official signing of the tourism cooperation protocol between Turkey and Greece marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the bilateral tourism relationship between the two countries. By focusing on diversifying tourism offerings, improving transport connectivity, and promoting sustainable travel, the two nations are taking important steps to ensure that their tourism industries thrive in the years ahead.
Through collaboration in areas such as agrotourism and coastal tourism, the countries will not only attract more visitors but also foster deeper economic and cultural ties. The expansion of the visa-on-arrival scheme and improved transport links will make travel between Turkey and Greece easier, more convenient, and more enjoyable for tourists.
With the growing numbers of Turkish citizens visiting Greece and Greek tourists exploring Turkey, the potential for future growth in tourism between the two countries is immense. This partnership, based on shared values and a commitment to sustainable tourism, is set to bring long-term benefits to both nations and will undoubtedly contribute to the further strengthening of their bilateral relations.
As both Turkey and Greece continue to build on their unique tourism assets, travelers can look forward to a wealth of new experiences and opportunities for exploration in both countries.
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