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Iceland and Scotland join forces for tourism development

2 min reading time

Published on 13/10/16 - Updated on 17/03/22

Visit Scotland

During the Arctic Circle Assembly, Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister of Scotland, announced the partnership between Visit Scotland and the Icelandic tourism board to mutually develop their tourism sector.

The Arctic Circle Assembly held in Reykjavik each year in October, brings together an international network for cooperation and dialogue that particularly bears on the future of the Arctic. On this occasion, Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister of Scotland, of the Scottish National Party (SNP), announced the signature of an agreement between the Scottish Tourism bureau, through its official website, Visit Scotland and the Icelandic tourism board. Its goal: to encourage an exchange of information between the two countries and formulate recommendations for the development of sustainable tourism. Another purpose of this collaboration was to strengthen tourism related to the film industry at these two destinations.

During this conference, Nicola Sturgeon declared: "Direct new, lines were developed between out two nations at the beginning of the year, so it the time is right for Visit Scotland and the Icelandic tourism board to strengthen their relations. During this conference, Nicola Sturgeon declared: "Direct new, lines were developed between out two nations at the beginning of the year, so it its the ideal time to visit Visit Scotland and the Icelandic tourism board, to learn more about one another and improve the experience of tourists at each of these destinations in the years to come."

Malcolm Roughead, CEO Visit Scotland added: "Tourism is a key element in the economies of Scotland and Iceland. For our nations this industry is a safety net during a difficult period. In the last three years, Visit Scotland and the Icelandic tourism board have built a solid and mutually beneficial relationship. This agreement brings it to a new level."

According to the Icelandic tourism board, Iceland welcomed more than 1.2 million visitors in 2015, for a nearly 29% increase over 2014. Visitors mostly come from the United Kingdom, the United States and Germany. Scotland, meanwhile welcomed close to 2.6 million foreign visitors in 2015 according to the Scottish tourism board; visitors are mostly from the United States, Germany and France.

This approach befits Scotland's desire to open up to the international sphere. The independent First Minister has just announced her intention to present a new project for a law next week for an independence referendum. Last June 23, Scotland voted stay in the European Union for 62% of its votes.
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