Greece and Canada signed their first-ever agreement to strengthen cooperation in the tourism sector, with particular emphasis on climate action.
Greek Tourism minister Olga Kefalogianni and the Ambassador of Canada to Greece Anna-Karine Asselin met in Athens on Thursday to sign the memorandum of understanding (MOU) on cooperation in the field of tourism.
The memorandum provides for the exchange of data and information on innovation, digitisation, tourism investment, education, vocational training, tourism promotion, development in the global tourism market, and new tourism products and services.
The two countries, which have long enjoyed excellent billateral relations in tourism, are looking to address tourism sector challenges related to climate change by exchanging views on best practices and sharing expertise to enhance resilience and promote sustainable tourism development.
“The new agreement confirms the will and commitment of Greece and Canada to promote a sustainable and innovative tourism model, strengthening cooperation at the institutional level and creating new opportunities for tourism development,” said minister Kefalogianni.
The MOU will also create opportunities to enhance tourism flows between the two countries.
“By working together, we’re making it easier for Canadians and Greeks to explore and enjoy each other’s countries while supporting economic prosperity for both,” commented Mary Ng, Canada’s Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development.
Canada and Greece have a growing trade and investment relationship, underpinned by the Canada–European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). In 2024, bilateral merchandise trade with Greece was 645.8 million CAD.
“Since its application, the Canada-EU free trade agreement is continuing in an impressive upwards trajectory. This MOU on tourism will contribute to the momentum and close ties between Greeks and Canadians, with important economic benefits,” said Anna-Karine Asselin, Ambassador of Canada to Greece.
Despite being literally half the world apart from each other, the two countries have a rich history rooted in shared values of democracy, human rights and the rule of law, both taking pride in the strong bonds and close cultural ties between them.
There is an estimated 300,000 Canadians of Greek origin, while many Canadians live, work and study in Greece, a news release said.
The Government of Canada looks forward to a strengthened bilateral relationship with Greece, and the opportunity to showcase its tourism sector to more international visitors, to the benefit of communities across the country, a statement said.
