Azernews.Az

By Amina Nazarli

Azerbaijan and Egypt may boost cooperation in tourism field, as Cairo is interested in the opening of direct flights between the two countries.

Egypt’s Deputy Minister of Tourism Mohamed Abdel Gabbar stressed that Cairo intends to develop tourism ties with Baku.

“In this connection we want to open a direct flight between Baku and Cairo or Baku and Sharm El Sheikh,” he told Interfax-Azerbaijan, adding that the extension of direct air communication will contribute greatly to the development of tourism bonds between Azerbaijan and Egypt.

The deputy minister said that the number of Egyptian tourists visiting Azerbaijan is small and represents about 3,000 people.

Abdel Gabbar further said that Egypt’s Tourism Minister Yahya Rashid is expected to visit Baku this April, which in turn, may be a big impetus for the development of the ties in this sphere.

“During the visit, the minister will be accompanied by representatives of the hotel business and travel agencies,” he said.

The minister’s visit first was scheduled for late 2015, but was postponed due to the crash of Airbus-321 Russian passenger airliner, which claimed the lives of 224 people, in Egypt.

Abdel Gabbar also noted that the establishment of sustainable tourism ties with Azerbaijan will eliminate all the problems faced by tourists.

Regarding the prices of tour packages, the deputy minister said that the Egyptian side can offer certain discounts. “Egyptian airlines can offer a reduced price on air tickets. It is not low-cost airlines. However, there may be some sort of discounts. Also we can cooperate with or assist any of Azerbaijani company engaged in tourism in Egypt,” he emphasized.

Meanwhile, Azerbaijan State Civil Aviation Administration announced that it received a request to perform flights on the route Cairo-Baku from Egyptian charter airline AirCairo.

However, the Administration has not yet issued permission, as the opening of a direct flight will be possible only after a safety inspection in this direction.

“Currently, the safety in this direction is being tested, and if the route is found to be safe, air service will be possible,” the Civil Aviation Administration said.

Cairo and Baku enjoy relations which date back to centuries ago but since the last century they have developed closer contacts. Egyptians and Azerbaijanis have much in common: traditions, culture, customs, attitudes and religion. Since Azerbaijan has gained its independence in 1991, the two countries have started building relations in the political, economic, cultural and educational spheres.

Egypt recognized Azerbaijan's independence in December 1991 and diplomatic relations between the two countries were established in March 1992.

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Amina Nazarli is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli

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