Yariv Levin says Tourism Ministry a full-time job

In the changeover ceremony of ministers at the Tourism Ministry in Jerusalem, incoming minister Yariv Levin underlines the importance of the ministry, saying, “Tourism is an engine for growth that has a direct influence on employment and development in the periphery.”

Levin thanked outgoing minister Uzi Landau, noting the importance of the position: “I chose to come to the Tourism Ministry. This is a ministry that requires a full-time minister. I believe in the importance of the ministry in terms of its influence on Israel’s image overseas, its economy and social fabric. Israel’s strength is expressed in its ability to make the most of its advantages and the good things at its disposal. The tourism industry is an engine for growth that has a direct influence on employment and development in the periphery.”

Landau told Levin, “You are receiving one of the most fascinating ministries in the government. I am pleased that the Bank of Israel and the Finance Ministry recently identified tourism as an important engine for growth that accounts for between 2 to 2.5 percent of GDP.”