Yemen to Participate in International Tourism Fair
On November 8, a Yemeni delegation traveled to London to participate in the World Tourism Fair, which will take place November 10-13, 2008.
Yemen’s Tourism Minister Nabil al-Faqi stated the necessity of Yemen’s participation, particularly in the face of tourism rates significantly declining since the attacks on the US Embassy in Sana’a. Al-Faqi explained Yemen’s hope in forming “tourism alliances” with the British and thereby forming a relationship and connection with the UK.
Yemen’s participation in the conference shows the country’s attempts to extend itself beyond the Middle East and introduce itself within Europe. Yemen’s participation is an example of how the country is attempting to repair and reinvent itself in the face of terrorism and other internal issues. In addition, the conference will discuss Yemen’s internal conditions that have adversely affected tourism. The conference seems to indicate Yemen’s recognition that there are problems that must be dealt with in order for the country to create a positive reputation, especially in the Europe and the United States.
Jenna Hootstein
