Opening of the Algerian pavilion at Artigiano in Fiera in Milan

#PressStatement

Ms Houria Meddahi, Minister of Tourism and Handicrafts, officially inaugurated this morning, November 30, 2024, the 28th edition of the International Handicrafts Fair "Artegiano in Vera", alongside Algeria's Ambassador to Rome and the Algerian Consul General in Milan, in the presence of her Italian counterpart, Minister of Tourism, Ms Danila Santanelli, and Minister of Education, Mr Giuseppe Valditaro.

Among the official delegation also attended Italian officials, particularly Carlo Bonomi, head of the Milan Fair, Attilio Fontana, head of Lombardy region, and Mr. Oneto Integlia, organizer of the International Fair for Traditional Industries.

At the start of the official opening ceremony of the exhibition, Madam Minister attended the opening of the "Saudi Arabia Pavilion," which is considered the "honorary guest of the Middle East region." Then, Madam Minister proceeded to oversee the "Algerian Official Pavilion" in the presence of the official delegation, as well as Saudi official representatives, including the Saudi Ambassador accredited to Milan, officials from the Royal Institute of Traditional Arts, the Saudi Tourism Authority, and officials from the Saudi Culinary Arts and Theater Institutes, as well as official representatives from the countries participating in the event.

During her speech, Ms. Minister expressed her joy at overseeing the official opening of Algeria's pavilion, following the recognition that Algeria would be "a distinguished guest of the African continent for this edition," highlighting that her presence in the Italian city of Milan falls within the framework of implementing the high-level will of President Abdelmadjid Toubon, to strengthen the historical ties of friendship between Algeria and Italy, and to promote bilateral relations across various fields, especially the economic sector, including the traditional crafts industry, as well as to enhance the exchange of expertise between the two countries.

As Madam Minister highlighted, Algeria's participation as a distinguished guest in Africa enhances its pride and deep sense of responsibility regarding the importance of joint efforts. The continued presence of the handicrafts sector at the sixth consecutive edition of this significant international event carries more than symbolic value, establishing the Algerian artisan as a ambassador for Algeria's rich traditions and authentic heritage, spanning thousands of years. She noted that Algeria is actively represented through over 80 artisans and Algerian craftsmen, all highly skilled and proficient across various specialties, underscoring the fact that this participation serves as a bridge reflecting the growing ties between the peoples and artists of both countries, built upon mutual friendship and respect. Additionally, public and private tourism stakeholders are participating to promote and showcase Algeria's diverse tourism offerings, including Saharan tourism, Choum tourism, coastal tourism, mountain tourism, and business tourism, due to the country's vibrant economic and social activities, including major, well-structured projects in industry, agriculture, irrigation, and more. At the same time, she urged the representatives from the over 100 countries currently present at the exhibition to strongly visit the Algerian pavilion to closely explore the vast beauty and grandeur of Algeria, through its deep historical culture and heritage, as well as the artistic masterpieces created by Algerian artisans, showcasing their creative talents inspired by their artistic, cultural, and historical heritage, reflecting the authenticity and identity of Algeria's cultural, artistic, and historical legacy.

Finally, Madam Minister expressed her pleasure at participating, on behalf of Algeria, in the opening ceremony of the Algerian Pavilion in Italy, highlighting the clear significance of realizing President Abdelmadjid Toubon's strategic vision by giving tangible and distinctive impetus to the partnership between Algeria and Italy through cultural, intellectual, and tourism exchanges, and by translating cooperation and alignment into practical on-the-ground actions.

As Madam Minister, bilateral meetings were held with official Italian authorities, in the presence of the Algerian Ambassador and the Consul General of Algeria in Italy, as well as sector representatives and tourism operators, in response to their requests, including a press conference with the Italian media, during which she highlighted Algeria's efforts to develop the tourism and handicrafts sectors, particularly Saharan tourism, which the President of the Republic has given full attention and priority within the Algerian Government's work program. Madam Minister also emphasized the importance of developing traditional crafts found in the Saharan regions and the skills of the active artisans, underscoring their role in promoting and showcasing Saharan tourism.

Post shared by the Office Ministry of Tourism and Handicrafts - Algeria.