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A $1.25 million agreement to increase tourism to Thailand has been signed by Etihad Airways.
The Abu Dhabi-based airline and the Tourism Authority of Thailand will jointly promote travel to the country from the United Arab Emirates, UK, Ireland, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, South Africa, Iran and Kuwait.
TAT has set a target of 28 million international visitors this year generating an estimated $41 billion.
Shane O’Hare, Etihad’s marketing senior vice president, said: “Etihad Airways has a long and proud association with Thailand – in fact Bangkok was one of our first international routes.
“It continues to be one of the busiest in our network enjoying strong year-round demand, particularly from the UAE, GCC, Middle East, Africa and Europe.”
He added: “With five daily flights to Thailand – four to Bangkok and one to Phuket – Etihad Airways has a significant investment in Thai tourism and the new agreement with Tourism Authority of Thailand supports and extends that commitment.
“Through innovative joint marketing campaigns, we aim to bring hundreds of thousands of first-time and repeat travellers from Europe and the Middle East to Thailand to enjoy this beautiful country and to experience the warm, friendly hospitality for which the Thai people are world-renowned.”
Juthaporn Rerngronasa, acting governor of TAT, said: “Europe has long been a prime market for Thailand. We have also seen an increase in visitors from the Middle East and Africa.
“The new partnership with Etihad Airways will be a great benefit to both parties – to Thailand in terms of increased visitor numbers and to Etihad Airways in terms of promoting its international network.”