Iran (IMNA) - A key topic of discussion was the development of sea tourism around the strategically significant Iranian islands of Abu Musa, Greater Tunb, and Lesser Tunb. This initiative is seen as a direct response to what Iran considers baseless territorial claims by the United Arab Emirates.
Shalbafian highlighted the importance of the Seventh National Development Plan in revitalizing the tourism industry, advocating for policies to encourage investment and improve infrastructure. “To sustain tourism projects, we must create incentives and establish mechanisms that motivate investors,” he stated, emphasizing the need for collaboration across government sectors.
Proposals included tax exemptions for importing tourism equipment and leisure vessels, which are essential for developing sea tourism but are not manufactured locally. Shalbafian also stressed the importance of private sector involvement, suggesting that certain tourism management roles be delegated to professional associations.
Gholamheydar EbrahimBay-Salami, an academic from the University of Tehran, pointed out the close relationship between tourism and political developments. He called for strong collaboration between government and parliamentary bodies to invigorate the sector and develop comprehensive plans to expand Iran’s traditionally fragmented tourism market.
Ali Rahimpour, a veteran in the hospitality industry, recommended forming a dedicated committee to coordinate with other ministries and promote international awareness about Iran’s tourism potential. He noted that such efforts could help counteract negative perceptions regarding the islands.
The meeting concluded with calls for improving tourism standards, enhancing service quality, and developing a skilled workforce to meet the industry's growing demands.
Iran has consistently rejected UAE claims regarding Iranian three islands as unfounded. The most recent reiteration of these claims occurred on October 17 during a joint meeting in Brussels involving leaders from the Persian Gulf Cooperation Council and the European Union.
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