Govt's Tourism Policy is intended to materially benefit ordinary citizens – Pres Solih

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that the administration's tourism policy is intended to materially benefit ordinary citizens.

During an event held tonight at Dharubaaruge to inaugurate the government's Tourism Master Plan, the president said sustainable development of the tourism sector can be achieved though ensuring that the citizens of the country have access to its benefits, and through acknowledging the concerns of those working in the tourism industry.

"We have been always reiterating that the communities will flourish with the rising incomes of the country's citzens. Therefore, the administration's tourism policy is centered around directly increasing the earnings of the citizens", said the President.

President Solih further said the main complaint of those working in the tourism industry is concerning the difference in wages between Maldivian and expatriate workers, and difficulties faced by Maldivian employees in attaining senior positions in tourism businesses.

Highlighting that one's earnings is always a matter of concern, despite the field one is working in, efforts will be undertaken to increase opportunities for Maldivians in the tourism sector, and Maldivians working in the field will be trained further under the new tourism Master Plan.

The President further stressed on the importance of protecting the environment to allow sustainable development of the tourism industry.