Doha, October 04 (QNA) - HE the Secretary-General of Qatar National Tourism Council and Group Chief Executive of Qatar Airways Akbar Al Baker has affirmed to exert all effective efforts, in cooperation with partners in the public and private sectors, to develop new tourism experiences, products and services that would enhance Qatar's position as a world-class destination, support the annual event calendar and highlight global cadres and competencies.

In an interview with Al-Sharq newspaper published Sunday, Al Baker said that the wise leadership has recognized the need to develop economic sectors that are not dependent on oil and gas and the need to build a sustainable national economy.

As one of the most flexible economic sectors in the world, the tourism industry is extremely important to drive sustainable economic growth, Al Baker said.

With the 2022 FIFA World Cup countdown, QNTC is working in cooperation with its partners in the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC) to develop "fan zones" and enhance fans' experience during their stay in Qatar, he said.

Until the start of the 2022 World Cup, more international sporting events and tournaments will be added to the events' calendar, which will contribute to strengthening Qatar's prestigious position in the field of global sport, Al Baker added.

The Secretary-General of QNTC pointed out that investing in the field of ecotourism, enhancing visitors' experience and developing tourism offers and products designed to meet their aspirations and providing an encouraging environment for investors will chart a path that ensures sustainable growth.

He emphasized that domestic tourism occupies an important place within the comprehensive tourism strategy, and today it plays a vital role in the recovery of the tourism sector.

He also noted the growth of cruise tourism despite the challenges it faces under the current circumstances, indicating that it is considered one of the most promising sectors in Qatar, as Qatar already receives bookings for the 2020-2021 season.

While the recovery of cruise tourism will take time, it remains a priority for the promotion and development of the tourism sector in Qatar, he said, pointing out that QNTC intends to work with its partners to take the necessary measures to facilitate the return of Cruise ships, while ensuring the health and safety of the people of Qatar and its visitors.

He added that the future for this sector is promising, and that the ongoing major infrastructure projects in the country, such as the expansion of the Doha Port to receive three ships simultaneously, including two mega ships, will enhance Qatar's attractiveness as a unique tourist destination and as a major stop in the region for the cruise terminals.

He expressed confidence in the tourism sector's recovery from the impact of Covid-19, saying that this is not the first challenge that has been faced and successfully overcome, and that the sector will overcome this period strongly and effectively and with more experiences that meet the requirements of the post-pandemic phase.

The QNTC, in cooperation with its partners, is currently working on developing new plans that would revitalize the tourism sector, by supporting the hospitality and retail sectors and the destination management companies with new virtual events and the launch of a strategy to support the resumption of activity in the sector after the pandemic. (QNA)