Sustainable tourism is set to take centre stage as Cyprus assumes the EU presidency, a move poised to reshape the future of travel across the Mediterranean. Deputy Tourism Minister Kostas Koumis recently emphasised the strategic importance of this initiative during a European conference in Nicosia, highlighting how tourism intertwines with economic growth, social cohesion, and regional development.
Sustainable tourism: A Historic Moment for Cyprus
Koumis described the upcoming six-month term as a pivotal period for the EU, marking a time not only for legislative coordination but also for steering long-term political direction. He articulated a vision for a resilient tourism sector that prioritises sustainability, urging stakeholders to address pressing issues such as climate action and environmental protection.
Emphasising the Twin Transition
At the heart of this strategy lies the concept of a “twin transition” – a dual focus on green and digital solutions. Koumis believes that by promoting these transitions, Cyprus can foster a tourism ecosystem that is innovative, adaptable, and capable of providing enduring value for both visitors and locals alike.
Support for Rural and Experiential Tourism
The Cyprus Tourism Strategy 2035 is closely linked to these initiatives, with targeted grants under the recovery and resilience plan aimed at upgrading rural accommodation and modernising catering businesses. The focus on experiential tourism offers travellers unique opportunities to engage more deeply with the rich cultural heritage of Cyprus.
Collaboration in the Eastern Mediterranean
Echoing Koumis’s sentiments, Greece’s Deputy Tourism Minister Anna Karamanli highlighted the importance of joint efforts in promoting sustainable tourism across the Eastern Mediterranean. With a record revenue of €23.626 billion in 2025, Greek tourism has demonstrated a qualitative upgrade, which she attributes to a concerted focus on sustainability.
Shared Responsibilities for Island Nations
Karamanli noted the common challenges faced by island and coastal EU member states, such as environmental sensitivity and the pressures of seasonal tourism. The establishment of a Coastal and Marine Tourism Observatory in the region, led by Greece and supported by Cyprus, aims to enhance policy alignment and strengthen monitoring efforts.
Protecting Unique Ecosystems
Prince Albert II of Monaco cautioned that while the Mediterranean is a popular destination, it is also exceptionally vulnerable. His message underscored the need for all stakeholders to take responsibility in safeguarding the environment, emphasising that tourism’s impact extends beyond mere economic figures to encompass significant cultural and environmental implications.
Climate Action as a Pillar of Tourism Policy
Dilyor Khakimov, UN Tourism’s director of institutional relations, echoed this call for integrated climate action within tourism policy. He noted that sustainability and competitiveness must become foundational principles, particularly as tourism increasingly faces climate-related challenges.
Driving Europe’s Green Transition
Philippos Drousiotis, executive chairman of the Cyprus Sustainable Tourism Initiative, asserted that the tourism sector must lead Europe’s green transition. With tourism accounting for nearly 10 per cent of EU GDP and employment, he emphasised the sector’s vital role in reducing carbon intensity and preserving biodiversity.
As Cyprus embarks on this transformative journey, the focus on sustainable tourism promises to enrich the experiences of future travellers while ensuring the preservation of the island’s natural and cultural treasures.
