Christodoulides says tourism remains cornerstone of Cyprus’ economy

President Nikos Christodoulides on Thursday addressed the 91st HOTREC general assembly in Paphos, highlighting the vital role of tourism in Cyprus’ economy, the country’s sustainable development strategy, and upcoming European priorities under Cyprus’ EU presidency in 2026.

HOTREC is the umbrella association representing Europe’s hospitality industry to EU institutions, advocating for its interests, and sharing expertise on key issues.

The president began by welcoming participants, calling the event “a gathering of leaders, innovators, and visionaries from the European hospitality and tourism sector”.

Christodoulides expressed appreciation to HOTREC president Alexandros Vassilikos, vice president Morten Thorvaldsen, and the board of directors for their efforts, as well as to the Cyprus Hotel Association for representing Cyprus at HOTREC.

“A warm welcome also to all representatives of the hospitality and tourism sector, whose dedication, expertise, and innovation are indispensable not only to economic growth, but also to the shared European cultural heritage,” he said.

Christodoulides praised HOTREC’s contribution to Europe’s hospitality landscape, saying the organisation “has consistently demonstrated and contributed to the sector’s resilience, innovation, and commitment to excellence.”

He emphasised that tourism remains a cornerstone of Cyprus’ economy, contributing over 13 per cent of GDP and supporting nearly 120,000 direct and indirect jobs.

Beyond the numbers, the president said tourism “plays a key role in strengthening social cohesion, supports local communities, and contributes to the preservation of our cultural and natural heritage.”

However, he also pointed out that the pandemic and other international developments had shown both the vulnerability and resilience of the sector.

“In fact, in Cyprus, tourism played a decisive role in driving economic recovery in 2022,” he said.

These experiences, he added, “have underscored the importance of diversifying source markets, extending the tourism season, and continuously enhancing the quality and sustainability of tourism experiences.”

The president said the government remained “tangibly committed” to pursuing a forward-looking tourism policy aligned with HOTREC’s priorities.

These include improving the quality and diversity of the tourism product, revitalising destinations with a focus on sustainable development, and promoting education, innovation, and digital transformation.

“Our overarching goal is that the sector develops in a way that is economically robust, environmentally sustainable, and socially inclusive,” he said.

He stressed the importance of collaboration with industry partners, saying that Cyprus is “investing in resilience, quality, and sustainability across the tourism ecosystem.”

These efforts, he said, had produced tangible results. “In 2024, Cyprus welcomed over four million visitors, generating more than three billion euros in tourism revenue,” he said.

He added that projections for 2025 indicate another record-setting year, while Cyprus now ranks second among European countries in the improvement of air connectivity since 2019.

“These results reflect strategic planning and collaboration across government, industry, and local communities,” he said.

Christodoulides stated that continuous innovation was necessary to maintain progress, pledging to focus on addressing climate change, promoting the green and digital transitions, and investing in workforce education and skills.

Moreover, he said that Cyprus’ upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union in January 2026 presented an opportunity “to build on the European Agenda for Tourism 2030 and explore new frontiers”.

He added that “the fact that for the first time the EU has a Commissioner dedicated to Tourism is proof that we are extending our frontiers.”

In addition, he praised Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas for his “excellent work” and revealed that during a recent visit to Cyprus, they discussed initiatives “to put tourism at the forefront of the European agenda”.

Christodoulides also said that he was particularly pleased that during the Cyprus presidency, “the new European Tourism Strategy will be presented, discussed and translated into concrete action.”

He further said that the strategy would align with Cyprus’ focus on boosting EU competitiveness and simplifying administrative processes, while contributing to negotiations on the next EU Multiannual Financial Framework.

“Tourism is far more than an economic sector; it is a bridge between people, an enabler and multiplier of cultural exchange, and a driver of sustainable prosperity,” he said.

“Cyprus is very proud to contribute and lead on this shared European endeavour, including during the upcoming Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU,” he added.

“I wish you all a productive and successful general assembly,” he continued. “And to warmly welcome you once again, to my hometown, the remarkable city of Paphos.”

“I am certain its exceptional people will embrace you and demonstrate first hand what Cypriot hospitality entails,” he concluded.