MALTA AND TUNISIA SIGN COOPERATION AGREEMENT ON TOURISM

The Minister for Tourism and the Self-Employed, Mr. Karmenu Vella, and the Tunisian Minister for Tourism and Handicrafts, Slaheddine Maaoui, last Saturday signed a Cooperation Agreement on Tourism. A central point of the agreement is the setting up of a Joint Commission between Malta and Tunisia which will be responsible for enhancing Cooperation in Tourism between the two countries.

During official talks held prior to the signing of the agreement, Mr Karmenu Vella said that relations between Malta and Tunisia have always been excellent. This, the Minister said, made it possible for further agreements to be reached between the two countries in other fields.

Tourism is important for the economies of both Malta and Tunisia, and also helps in the social development within the two countries. Although they can be considered as competitors, Mr. Vella said, the two countries can aid each other through the cooperation agreement, which foresees the exchange of visitors and expertise.

The Joint Commission which is being set up will have the backing of both governments, concluded Mr. Vella.