Ekiti State has received a prestigious invitation to participate in The Art of Tea Ceremony, a hallmark event organised by Chinese Tourism Promoters under the auspices of the African-Chinese Tourism Expo. The ceremony will be held at the Chinese Cultural Centre, Abuja, on December 3rd, 2024.
According to Amb Phillips Roberts, President of Chinese Tourism Promoters, the event fosters, lubricates, and promotes cross-continental business collaboration and innovation in tourism.
Amb Roberts disclosed that this remarkable invitation underscores the global recognition of Ekiti State’s burgeoning tourism sector, shaped by the visionary leadership of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and the strategic direction of Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development.
He pointed out that Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s steadfast advocacy of tourism as the state’s “untapped gold and crude oil” has laid the groundwork for sustainable tourism development in Ekiti.
The Chinese Tea Ceremony, a symbol of harmony, respect, and connection, will serve as a platform for Ekiti State to showcase its unique cultural and tourism potentials while exploring opportunities for bilateral cooperation. By participating in this event, Ekiti stands to benefit in several ways. The event will offer Ekiti State an international stage to highlight its rich cultural heritage, natural attractions, and tourism investments, enhancing its appeal to global tourists and investors.
Also, as part of the business forum, Ekiti delegates will engage with Chinese tourism experts, gaining insights into innovative practices and sustainable models that can bolster the state’s tourism infrastructure.
The expo presents a unique opportunity to forge strategic alliances with Chinese stakeholders, opening doors for investments and collaborations that can accelerate the growth of Ekiti’s tourism sector.
It will also strengthen international ties with China, a global leader in tourism. This aligns with Ekiti State’s vision of diversifying its economy and generating employment opportunities through a robust tourism industry.
Ekiti State’s selection for this prestigious event reaffirms its position as a rising star in Nigeria’s tourism landscape. Under Governor Oyebanji’s administration, the state has implemented transformative policies and initiatives, positioning tourism as a cornerstone of its economic development strategy.
Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre expressed optimism about the state’s participation: “This invitation is a testament to our efforts in making Ekiti State a prime tourism destination. The Art of Tea Ceremony is more than an event; it’s a gateway to unlocking new opportunities for our people and establishing Ekiti as a tourism and cultural powerhouse on the global stage.”
Ekiti State is poised to seize this opportunity, leveraging its participation in The Art of Tea Ceremony to further its sustainable tourism development and international collaboration mission.
