ITB tourism exhibition in Berlin is “very interested” in having Iran as its official partner country, said the head of the world’s largest tourism fair, Martin Buck in an exclusive interview with IRNA.
“It is one of my dreams to have Iran as our partner country,” and I hope we can realize that dream one day, said Buck.
We are “very keen” on having partner countries like Iran with a huge tourism potential. Iran is among the most attractive, as we select new partner candidates after 2016. “We see it as a great political signal,” he reiterated.
According to Buck, Iran has massively expanded its presence at the upcoming 49th ITB Berlin tourism fair (March 4-8), which is widely regarded as the world’s biggest travel and tourism exhibition.
“We are delighted to announce that Iran has increased its presence at this year’s ITB exhibit and for the first time ever will have its own pavilion,” he added.
Buck quoted German tour operators as saying Iran has become “a very popular travel destination” over the past two years and there is growing demand by tourists to visit the Middle Eastern country.
Referring to Iran’s growing importance as an international tourist destination, Buck stressed that not only are Iranians “very hospitable, but the country is also very safe for travelers.”
What is important is the general perception of Iran --not only as an attractive -- but also safe country. “These are very important factors,” if you want to promote Iran’s tourism and travel industry globally, Buck said.
He added these are also factors that will contribute to a likely tourist boom in Iran over the coming years.
Asked about Iran’s short-term focus on promoting its tourism industry, Buck emphasized Iran’s need ‘to fine-tune its marketing strategy’ around the world.
First, Iran has to identify its niche in the global market, including from where it wants to attract tourists. Then it has to find out what are the real needs of foreign tourists, and adapt its marketing strategy accordingly, Buck said.
He pointed to talks with Iranian tourism officials and tour operators in finding ways to further improve the country’s travel industry.
Buck called for greater Iranian efforts in attracting foreigners to invest in the country’s tourism infrastructure.
