May 14th is deadline for UNWTO preps

May 14^th is deadline for UNWTO preps

Livingstone, May 09, ZANIS…The 3rd Zambia- Zimbabwe joint Ministerial committee meeting  has resolved that 14th May, 2013 next week as the deadline for Visas, and transport preparations for the forthcoming United Nations World Tourism General Assembly(UNWTO) summit.

Tourism and Arts Ms Sylvia Masebo says that the ministerial meeting resolutions have added more  impetus towards the progress in the preparations between the two host countries.

“We want to ensure that we have coherence in the manner we handle certain issues like visas and we have set May 14th as deadline for some of these issues to be ironed out,” Ms Masebo said.

Ms Masebo also observed that while both countries were security user friendly, there was need to put in place proper security measures and qualified tourist guides in both countries to guarantee total security and prevent any unnecessary accidents for delegates expected to the global event.

The two countries have since addressed conference venues, food, accommodations with each country having made block room bookings of more than 3,000 rooms among other strides in the preparations.

Meanwhile, Ms. Masebo has reiterated the need for the media to continue reporting positively about the tourism potential of both countries in order for the two countries to reap maximum benefits from the prestigious event and thereafter.

And Zimbabwe Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Walter Mzembi  has re-emphasized the need for both countries to remain focused and deliver during the UNWTO summit.

Mr. Mzembi said  the two neighbouring countries should remain focused  so that they could leave a legacy of excellence in hospitality that they are renowned for.