Maldives took part in the BIT fair held in Milan , Italy from 18th to 21st February. The first two days of the fair was open for the general public and the last two days for personnel involved in the tourism industry.

The Maldivian stand was popular among members of both the general public and tourism sector. Popular tour operators of Italy and officials form some airlines were among those who visited on the days open for tourism sector personnel. Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Dr. Mahamood Shougee met with some of them and discussed ways in which Maldivian tourism could be expanded and developed. Hon. Hassan Sobir - the Maldivian High Commissioner for the United Kingdom also took part in these meetings. Representatives from EuroFly, Air Italy , Qatar Airways were among those who met with the Minister and High Commissioner.

During this fair, information about Maldivian tourism was also given to the Italian media and some tourist magazines.

A Maldivian evening was also held in conjunction with this fair, in which 250 personnel involved in the tourism industry took part. During his speech at this function the Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Dr. Mahamood Shougee stated that Maldivian tourism had returned to the status it was before the Tsunami, and that the future looked optimal. He also highlighted the efforts of private entrepreneurs in the industry and thanked them for their contributions in improving Maldivian tourism. A presentation was also given by the Maldives Tourism Promotion Board at this function.

The Minister met with invitees before prior to the function and discussed plans to develop tourism in the country. He also answered questions posed by the media. During this function in which a popular band of Maldives - Mezzo performed live, prizes comprising holiday packages in the Maldives were also given. Among those who sponsored these prizes were Universal Resorts, Villa Hotels, Bandos Island Resort, Club Ranaalhi, AAA Hotels, EuroFly and Dhonveli Beach and Spa Resort.

The Maldivian stand was designed by Mr. Muaviath Ali.

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