Video conference of ministers of tourism, 20 May 2020

Summary:

EU Ministers responsible for matters relating to Tourism held a videoconference on 20 May 2020.

Further information:

Ministers exchanged views on how best to take forward the implementation of the guidelines and recommendations presented by the European Commission on 13 May 2020 with a view to helping member states coordinate the gradual lifting of travel restrictions and allow tourism businesses to reopen while respecting the necessary health precautions.

Ministers broadly welcomed the Commission guidelines as a necessary first step for the recovery of the tourism sector. Ministers encouraged the Commission to carry out its plans to create an interactive website. Several member states were of the view that the tourism sector requires a swift and targeted financial support at EU level to address the impact of the COVID-19 crisis, including adequate financial support from the upcoming EU recovery plan.

Finally, as regards passengers whose flights were cancelled due to the pandemic, a number of ministers called upon the Commission to provide member states with additional flexibility in order to address liquidity problems of airline companies.