Environment protection must be perceived as a national duty that befalls on every single citizen as environment conservation is imperative to sustainability of the tourism industry, says President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

In his address to commemorate World Tourism Day 2019, Solih stated that the natural islands and its diversity is the lifeblood of Maldives tourism, going on to commend industry experts, investors and local NGOs that put in their best for the progress of the industry.

Highlighting that the purpose of celebrating the day is working to find comprehensive solutions by working in cooperation with the international community, identify challenges surfacing for the industry, the President stressed on the importance of creating awareness on the progress of the industry.

Further he added that the country must make use of its popularity, to invest in opportunities that benefit individuals and that experimenting on different concepts will help to achieve this.

The main reason for Maldives popularity among tourists is its seclusion and solitude from being an isolated island nation within the Indian Ocean Region, as peace and harmony is what makes up sustainable tourism.

While the industry came into being in the country 47 years ago with only a handful of beds at 60, Solih said that a small group of brave businessmen had set several challenges which set a good example for generations ahead of them.

The President went on to add that Maldives must explore tourism products that are trending in the international community some of which are included in commercial, cultural and traiditonal, sports and medical tourism that are gaining popularity among avid travelers.

The World Tourism Day is celebrated annually on 27 September and this year, Maldives has several festive events scheduled that kicked off on Thursday evening.