Angola's Prime Minister H.E. Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos and First Lady to Open Historic Fir
The Ninth International Cultural and Ecotourism Symposium Luanda, Angola, Oct. 30 - Nov. 4, 2005
NEW TORK, NY, September 21, 2005. The Republic of Angola has accorded the Africa Travel Association's 9th Cultural & Ecotourism Symposium the status of a State Event. To be held in Luanda, the capital, from October 30 to November 4, this important occasion marks the first time a travel/tourism industry event of international significance has been held in Angola. Angola's Prime Minister H.E. Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos and the First Lady, H.E. Ana Paula dos Santos will open proceedings at the Palace of Congress. Headquarters hotel will be Le Presidente Meridien, a 4-star property overlooking Luanda Bay.
The joint announcement was made by Africa Travel Association Executive Director Mira Berman and Hon. Eduardo S. Chingunji , MP, Minister of Hotels and Tourism, Republic of Angola, who is in New York City this week to attend a reception in his honor by ATA headquarters in conjunction with ATA's New York Chapter (NYATA). H.E. Chingunji said, "This landmark decision is indicative of the nation's recognition of the key role that tourism will play in the economy of this rapidly emerging country, which is one of the continent's richest in terms of resources."
The symposium program, which starts with a 'welcoming' speech by Prime Minister H.E. Fernando Jose de Franca Dias, will include daily seminars and workshops on topics that are vital to Africa and the world's travel and tourism industry. Attractions include a series of gala luncheons and evening banquets, enhanced by cultural presentations and entertainment. Also on the agenda are greetings by the United States Ambassador and the Governor of Luanda.
Host Country Tour The Angola Tourism Ministry's Conference Planning Committee has arranged an outstanding 'Host Country Program,' which includes a half day sightseeing excursion in Luanda and area, visiting such popular sites as the Slavery Museum Craft Market, Moon Viewpoint at the National Park of Quissama, plus attendance at the Craft, Cultural and Tourism Fair. Later there will be an overnight stay and full day excursion, hosted by ENDIAMA, the National Diamond Industry of Angola, in Lunda Sul, Saurimo, with a visit to Catoca.
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is a global leading lodging company based in Bethesda,Maryland, USA, with more than 4,200 properties in 80 countries and territories. Marriott International reported revenues of nearly $14 billion in fiscal year 2014. The company operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts under 19 brands, including: The Ritz-Carlton®, BVlgari®, EDITION®, JW Marriott®, Autograph Collection® Hotels, Renaissance® Hotels, Marriott Hotels®, Delta Hotels and Resorts®, Marriott Executive Apartments®, Marriott Vacation Club®, Gaylord Hotels®, AC Hotels by Marriott®, Courtyard®, Residence Inn®, SpringHill Suites®, Fairfield Inn & Suites®, TownePlace Suites®, Protea Hotels® and MoxyHotels®. Marriott has been consistently recognized as a top employer and for its superior business ethics. The company also manages the award-winning guest loyalty program, Marriott Rewards® and The Ritz-Carlton Rewards® program, which together surpass 50 million members. For more information or reservations, please visit our website at 
