Good news for Greek tourism, as the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) announced yesterday a 22.2 % annual rise in Greek tourist arrivals over the last nine months.

According to the findings of UNWTO, Europe (+4%) is the most visited region with over half of the world’s international tourists and an increase of 22 million arrivals in 2014, reaching a total of 588 million, with Northern Europe and Southern and Mediterranean Europe leading growth (both +7%).

The Association of Hellenic Tourism Enterprises (SETE) also confirmed that international arrivals reached a total of 24 million last year, an international point of reference. SETE also added that travel revenues totaled to €13.5 billion and created more than 100,000 jobs in 2014.

See also Ekathimerini.com: Greek Tourism rise outshines global gains & UNWTO World Tourism Barometer

Elena Kountoura from the Independent Greeks party has been appointed Alternate Minister of Tourism and will take over from Olga Kefalogianni in a handover ceremony scheduled today.

The former Tourism Ministry is now part of the new Economy, Infrastructure, Shipping and Tourism Ministry, following the announcement of the new Greek cabinet yesterday.

See also: Elena Kountoura’s CV