Yesterday in Zagreb, Tourism Minister Gari Cappelli held a reception with ambassadors accredited to the Republic of Croatia in an effort to present the current projects in Croatian tourism.
On the occasion, the Minister thanked the ambassadors for promoting Croatia in their home countries and emphasized the importance of tourism for the stimulation of overall growth for the Croatian economy. Around 50 ambassadors, consuls, and other diplomatic personnel of embassies accredited to the Republic of Croatia gathered at the reception, reports HRTurizam on March 29, 2017.
”Our wish is that all of our customers have an authentic Croatian experience which will thereby be assured with the preservation of the Croatian cultural and natural heritage, as well by the hospitality of our people. That’s exactly why there are beautiful stories and impressions of Croatia, formed on the basis of personal experience, which is the best recommendation and motivation for those who have yet to discover the magic and beauty of Croatia to do it soon,” said Minister Cappelli, who commented on the importance of tourism for Croatia as well as the importance of the tourism industry throughout the world.
Namely, according to the World Tourism Organization, tourism makes up about 10 percent of the world GDP, and through tourism, the revenue achieved is around 1.1 billion euros. It is estimated that the present 1.2 billion arrivals of foreign guests will increase to 1.8 billion arrivals by 2030.
“Tourism plays an important role in the economy of Croatia. It has developed continuously for more than 100 years, and in addition to representing an important economic activity, it represents an essential element of the Croatian national identity which we are extremely proud of. The importance of tourism for the Croatian economy is invaluable. The share of tourism in Croatia’s gross domestic product is around 18 percent, while tourism generated employment amounts to 9 percent,” added the Minister.
At the end of the address, the Minister urged ambassadors to visit continental Croatia and noted: “For the development of continental Croatia we will work intensively in the coming period until 2020. Having a balanced development of tourism in all parts of Croatia throughout the year will significantly contribute to the achievement of our main objective by 2020, and that is to enter the top 20 most competitive tourist destinations in the world.”
In addition, Dr. Mate Granić, special adviser to the President of the Republic of Croatia emphasized how tourism is of great importance for Croatia, which today is one of the safest countries in the world.
“Every tourist is welcome in Croatia, regardless of faith, race, and nationality, and in addition to tourists in Croatia, we welcome all foreign investment. In this regard, the Office of the President of the Republic of Croatia and the Government are always open and ready to help with such projects.”
