International conference on sports tourism held in Nicosia

A two-day international conference titled 'Sports tourism as a driver of sustainable development' began on Wednesday in Nicosia. The event serves as the first major follow-up to the EU Council conclusions on sports tourism adopted in May. Participants include government ministers, EU officials, sports authorities, academics, and industry representatives. Cyprus Education, Sport and Youth Minister Athena Michaelidou noted that the conference highlights the sector's cross-cutting role in sustainability, health, education, innovation, and social cohesion. Deputy Minister of Tourism Costas Koumis highlighted that sports tourism accounts for approximately 10% of global tourist spending and acts as a catalyst for economic growth. The initiative to prioritize this discussion was a deliberate political choice during the Cyprus Presidency of the EU. Cooperation among various stakeholders is identified as a necessary step to maximize the impact of the sector. The conference marks the first time EU Council policy has addressed the topic in a structured and comprehensive manner.