Tourism Minister Avedis Guidanian said on Sunday that Lebanon is now more secure than any foreign capital.

"We have entered a period of political and security stability, at a time when Lebanon occupies the first place in the region in terms of tourism," asserted Guidanian in an interview to Radio Lebanon.

He deemed that stability in the country greatly increases economic and tourism growth, noting that "prices are affordable and there are beautiful places outside the capital. Lebanon gives tourists more than any country in the region in terms of religious and cultural tourism."

Referring to the last Cabinet session, Guidanian described it as "excellent" since all items on the agenda were approved, giving room for resolving the public waste issue.

"A committee was formed to tackle the waste dossier and there are concerns by some ministers in this respect," he indicated, while calling for a "complete and comprehensive waste management plan."

Guidanian concluded by saying, "The year 2018 will be a promising one for tourism based on several factors, including the opening of new markets, a European spur for tourism in Lebanon...and medical tourism which is equally important." He disclosed herein his intention to arrange for a meeting to develop a new vision and plan to promote medical tourism in the country

Source: NNA