Algerian Embassy To Launch Tourism Centre In Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 21 (Bernama) -- The Algerian embassy here plans to establish a Tourism Centre in the first half of next year, aimed at strengthening cultural bonds and enhancing tourism opportunities with Malaysia.

Algeria’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Abdelhafid Bounour, said that they are currently in the early planning stages to operationalise the centre, with the objective to demonstrate that the existing ties between the two nations can be advanced – particularly in the realm of tourism.

“The goals, among others, include making people from both nations aware of each other’s uniqueness, with many promotional programmes and initiatives in the pipeline. The official opening is expected to take place soon next year.

“With the launch of the direct flight from Algiers to Kuala Lumpur by Air Algérie in June 2024, I am confident that there will be enhanced understanding, awareness, and trade relations as well,” the ambassador told reporters in a press conference held at his residence here on Thursday.

Abdelhafid, who assumed the role of Algerian ambassador to Malaysia six months ago, added that with citizens of both countries enjoying visa-free travel, the centre aims to be a platform for more meaningful people-to-people connections.

The envoy further disclosed that around 7,000 Algerians had visited Malaysia in 2019, while approximately 14,000 Malaysians had visited the North African country.

The establishment of the Algeria Tourism Centre and its multifaceted significance is expected to be unveiled during a high-level visit next year.

In 2021, Algeria was Malaysia’s tenth-largest trading partner in the African region, with total trade valued at RM1.36 billion.

Algeria is home to seven distinct UNESCO World Heritage sites.

-- BERNAMA