Interview: Tunisia will not forget Algerians’ action, says tourism director

A large number of Algerians go to visit Tunisia in holidays in solidarity with its people following a terrorist attack on foreign tourists. “Tunisia is grateful for this initiative. A total of 5,000 Algerians entered it in one single day,” General Director of the Tunisian Touristic Office, Abdelatif Hammam told Echorouk in an interview.

How do you assess Tunisia’s summer season this year?

In the beginning of the year, all the indicators showed that tourism sector will be revived as all the transition processes in the political field were completed. Everyone thought the country would become more stable. Yet, the Bardo attack showed that terrorists target sovereign institutions.

Could you talk about Algerians who went to Tunisia after the terror attacks?

I must hail all the Algerian people and their Prime Minister for their support. They are welcomed in Tunisia.

How many tourists have visited Tunisia so far?

For example, a total of 5,290 Algerians entered Tunisia on Monday. We explained that as an action in solidarity with us. We expect to receive 5.1 million Algerians this year compared to 3.1 million in 2014. If we reach this number, the Algerian market will be the most important touristic market for Tunisia.

You announced an exceptional plan to revive tourism. Could you give details?

The plan is based on continuous communication with interested people in the sector because they need to be reassured. We will target hit markets and listen to concerns in terms of air transport and commercial advertisements. We will also work on mobilizing energies in Tunisia to ensure safety. Earlier on June 29^th, the government announced special measures to ensure the safety of airports and hotels.