Visitor numbers in Limassol have so far held up despite the tension in the wider region, with tourism bodies saying Cyprus continues to be regarded as a safe and dependable destination.

That was the main message from a meeting between the Limassol regional tourism board (Etap), the Limassol hoteliers association (Pasyxe) and the association of Cyprus tourist enterprises (Stek).

The meeting reviewed the impact of developments in the wider region on tourism and also discussed ways to further upgrade Limassol’s tourism product.

According to the announcement, the meeting was attended by Etap president and Limassol chamber of commerce and industry (Evel) president Andreas Tsouloftas, Limassol Pasyxe chairman Christos Tsanos and Stek representative Rebecca Pieridou.

Tsouloftas said Cyprus remains “a stable and safe destination” for visitors, while Etap is closely and continuously monitoring developments in the region and any impact on the tourism sector.

He added that the board remains in constant contact with the deputy tourism ministry and sector bodies, noting that coordination is vital to ensuring the stability and resilience of Limassol’s tourism product.

Tsanos said the city’s hotel sector is closely monitoring international developments, but noted that demand has so far remained at stable levels, with only minor variations compared with last year.

He added that Cyprus continues to be considered “a safe and reliable tourist destination”, while the quality of services offered by Limassol hotels strengthens visitor confidence.

Despite the broader concern caused by international developments, tourist flows to Cyprus and Limassol are continuing normally, he said, adding that a coordinated effort by the tourism sector and the state is crucial to maintaining the country’s positive image in international markets.

Pieridou said “any losses in the current period are expected to be recovered in the coming months, particularly in the run-up to the Easter holidays.”

In its announcement, the Limassol tourism board stressed the importance of composure, cooperation and coordination among all stakeholders to safeguard the resilience of the tourism sector and maintain Limassol’s image as a safe and quality destination.

It concluded that Limassol’s promotional activity in international markets is continuing as normal, as part of efforts to keep demand steady in the months ahead.