President and CEO of Marriot International, Arne Sorenson, who met Ethiopia’s President Sahle-Work Zewde in Addis Ababa this morning, expresses Marriott’s plan to expand its presence in Ethiopia.
He indicated that the hospitality giant has set a target to work with Ethiopia to explore new ways andavenues to further enhance the hospitality industry in the country, according to the information from Ethiopian President Office.
“Tourism, particularly the hospitality industry is growing substantially in Ethiopia. As there is a high global competition for the market, Ethiopia needs to do more in the sector. Marriott is ready to work with the relevant bodies of Ethiopia,’’ he said.
Underlining the comparative advantages of Ethiopia in the industry, the CEO also briefed the President on its plan to hold a conference on Hospitality in Addis Ababa on next September, inviting people across Africa and the rest of the globe to promote heritages of Ethiopia and the continent.
President Sahle-Work Zewde on her part commended the initiative of the Company and reaffirmed the support of the government to realize its projects in a way of creating a notable impact. In September 2015 Marriott has opened executive hotel apartment in Addis Ababa, which is owned by Ethiopian tycoon Samuel Tafese’s, of Sunshine Investment Group.