The European Travel Commission has added its voice to global condemnation of the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
ETC, representing national tourism organisations of Europe, expressed solidarity with the people of Ukraine and urged Russian to immediately stop its military assault.
The organisation said: “ETC stands ready to support the Ukrainian people fleeing conflict.
“We praise the ongoing efforts of our members and industry partners to provide transportation, shelter and food to Ukrainian refugees.
“There are countless examples of the outpouring of support including our colleagues in Lithuania who launched a webpage and a hotline service for Ukrainian citizens in need of advice about relocating to Vilnius.”
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ETC associate member Airbnb’s offer of free accommodation for up to 100,000 Ukrainians displaced by the war was highlighted.
“Another inspiring example is train operators from many European countries who expressed solidarity and offered free travel to Ukrainian refugees,” the statement added.
“We will continue working with the travel community to develop and further promote initiatives across Europe to help the people of Ukraine.
“Our thoughts are with our travel and tourism colleagues in Ukraine, whose livelihoods have been needlessly destroyed.
“ETC is also mindful that this conflict will negatively impact the travel and tourism sectors of neighbouring countries, which were slowly recovering from the Covid-19 crisis.
“ETC is working together with the European Commission and other European stakeholders to mitigate the short and medium-term consequences and support affected colleagues.
“Travel is a force of peace towards a better future, and no aggression should stop it. European destinations remain safe to travel to.
“The founding principle of ETC is to promote travel as a catalyst for peace, understanding and respect. This original mission is as valid today as it was when our organisation was established more than 70 years ago in the aftermath of World War II.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring travel continues to build bridges between different cultures and people.”