'Jordan’s tourism sector takes major step towards sustainability'

AMMAN — The first sustainable tourism forum in Jordan kicked off in Amman on Wednesday.

Organised by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, in coordination with the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) and in collaboration with the Sustainable Tourism Practitioners Group, and supported by the Centre for the Promotion of Imports from Developing Countries (CBI) of the Netherlands.

During a speech delivered on behalf of the minister of tourism and antiquities, Secretary General of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities Fadi Balawi stressed the urgent need to prepare a paper outlining the strategies needed to support sustainability in the tourism sector.

 He noted the ministry's commitment to achieving sustainable development and enhancing Jordan's competitiveness as a global tourist destination.

“The paper will include proposals to develop legislation and policies that support the management of natural resources and minimise the environmental impact of the tourism sector, while preserving the continuity of heritage and archaeological sites, which are the pillars of the tourism product,” he said.

Balawi added that the ministry seeks to encourage tourism companies and facilities to obtain sustainability certificates, which are a global standard that reflects the sector's commitment to responsible environmental and social practices.

JTB Deputy Director General Wael Rousan said that the forum represents an important step towards achieving an ambitious vision for a more sustainable future for the country's tourism sector.

He emphasised the JTB's commitment to training its employees to ensure their ability to effectively implement this strategy, noting that the authority has collaborated with local associations to identify sustainable tourism experiences that engage local communities and enhance their vital role.