Moldova commits to sustainable tourism

23-12-22

Moldova has taken an important step in its commitment to sustainability in the tourism industry through its recent partnership with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). Promoting the implementation of the GSTC's sustainability criteria will ensure that the Moldovan tourism sector meets the highest global industry standards for sustainable tourism. 

This commitment was confirmed with the signing of a Partnership Agreement between the Ministry of Culture of Moldova, the governmental authority coordinating the tourism sector, and the GSTC. This Partnership Agreement establishes a framework for cooperation to develop a sustainable tourism industry in Moldova.

The Republic of Moldova, a small Eastern European country located between Romania and Ukraine, has great potential to develop as a sustainable tourism destination. Recent investments and developments in rural and wine tourism in the country have resulted in a range of new tourism products that highlight Moldova's unique cultural, culinary, wine and adventure travel potential. Moldova's tourism strategy has focused on preserving the country's authentic culture and developing tourism in rural communities, thus laying a solid and sustainable foundation.

Randy Durband, CEO of GSTC, said: "The sustainability commitment signed in Moldova will build on the cooperation of the public and private sectors to develop sustainable management guidelines applicable to various forms of tourism. The Moldovan tourism industry will benefit from the expertise and assistance of the GSTC to achieve a proper balance in the development of the sector and ensure its long-term sustainability."

Furthermore, the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Moldova, Sergiu Prodan, added: "Moldova is an emerging tourism destination that has been dramatically affected by the pandemic and the war in the region. However, the resilience paradigm, along with the development and recovery model, can only be based on the principles of sustainable development through a commitment to protect and enhance the environment and cultural heritage, while maximising the social and economic benefits for local communities. Everyone can now virtually explore Moldova on the 360.moldova.travel platform."

As a further sign of Moldova's commitment to becoming a sustainable destination, the National Inbound and Domestic Tourism Association of Moldova (ANTRIM) representing the private tourism sector, has recently become a member of the GSTC. Together, they will help Moldovan tourism businesses, government authorities and destinations to meet the GSTC's globally recognised sustainability standards.