In his address, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Costas Koumis, stated that this year's tourist season is evolving in a complex environment, influenced by geopolitical developments in the Middle East, however, the last few weeks have recorded trends of gradual normalisation, creating moderate optimism for the second half of the year.
Referring to Larnaka, he noted the region’s dynamic development path, which is reinforced by significant investments, the upgrading of infrastructure, the strengthening of the hotel base, and the effective promotion of the city and region’s authentic characteristics; elements that have substantially upgraded its competitiveness as a tourist destination.
The Chairman of Larnaka Tourism Board (LTB), Dinos Lefkaritis, stated that the strength of Larnaca does not lie in grand statements or impressive displays, but in the authenticity, hospitality, and simplicity of its people.
As he noted, this philosophy is reflected in LTB’s multifaceted initiatives, with the board actively investing in the promotion of experiential activities that enable visitors to feel ‘at home’ and connect meaningfully with the destination.
In the greeting of the President of Larnaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Nakis Antoniou, it was mentioned that Larnaka has been on a trajectory of dynamic development and transformation in recent years. The major infrastructure projects and significant investments that are underway are strengthening its position as a modern, competitive and highly attractive tourist destination.
Special reference was made to the city's significant distinction as ‘European Capital of Culture 2030’, aspects of which were presented by the General Director of the Larnaka 2030 organisation, Andreas Karakatsanis.
The educational and artistic programme ‘Carte PostArt’ was also presented. This initiative - developed by the Larnaca Cultural Foundation for Children and Youth and Larnaka Archives – Phivos Stavrides - is supported by LTB and aims to strengthen the destination's cultural identity by engaging children from an early age.
The event also incorporated the honorary awarding of three entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to the development of tourism in Larnaka region in recent years through major investments in the hospitality sector.
Specifically, Rajai Khoury - president and founder of Solaar Global Ventures, Marios Polyviou, CEO of Sunnyseeker Hotels, and Aleksander Eng - founder of The Agora Hotel in Lefkara, were honoured for their contribution.
LTB’s Chairman noted that these investments address an ongoing need to strengthen and upgrade the quality of the region’s hotel capacity. He also expressed his satisfaction that a further 29 tourism establishments are expected to become operational or receive licences across Larnaka region in the coming years; a development that is expected to further enhance the destination’s momentum, competitiveness and growth prospects.
