A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and Egypt's Petra National Trust (PNT) to promote sustainable tourism policies in cultural tourism, develop capacity building and knowledge sharing, and conduct educational actions.

The agreement was signed in Beijing, China, on the occasion of the recent First World Conference on Tourism for Development.    

The MoU was signed by UNWTO secretary-general Taleb Rifai and the president of PNT’s board, HRH Princess Dana Firas.

“The work developed by civil society organisations on the protection of heritage is a fundamental part of the tourism sector, and essential for the design and implementation of sustainable tourism initiatives involving and benefiting local communities. This agreement builds upon this principle,” said Rifai during the signing ceremony.

“This partnership agreement marks a new milestone for the Petra National Trust and will serve as the framework for joint cooperation between us. PNT will work closely with UNWTO to place preservation of culture and heritage at the centre of tourism development, and to expand PNT's innovative cultural education and awareness programmes to local communities internationally.  We thank UNWTO for their support and endorsement and look forward to a most fruitful partnership," said HRH Princess Dana. - TradeArabia News Service