Published on
November 19, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
The official inauguration of the third edition of the Sun&Blue Congress, the largest international forum on Tourism and the Blue Economy held in Europe, took place this morning at the Cabo de Gata Exhibition and Conference Centre in the City of Almería.
With over 120 international speakers and representatives from 37 countries, including high-ranking representatives from the Government of Mozambique, this edition strengthens its international character and role as a strategic platform to advance sustainable, innovative, and marine-related tourism models.Advertisement
Europe Recognises Almería as a Blue Leader
Apostolos Tzitzikostas, Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism of the European Commission, represented the Commission and highlighted the Mediterranean as a “natural treasure and economic engine of Europe.” He placed Almería as an example of sustainable water management, with 35 Blue Flag beaches and an “extraordinary commitment to the reuse of water resources and the protection of coastal ecosystems.” He announced that in April 2026, the Commission will present the first European Tourism Strategy, which will address sustainability, digitalisation, territorial regeneration, and local wellbeing: “We will work with destinations like Almería to build a European tourism model that empowers communities and strengthens Europe’s global leadership.”
Andalusia Strengthens Its Leadership in the Blue Economy
The President of the Andalusian Government, Juan Manuel Moreno Bonilla, praised the congress for bringing together “more than a thousand professionals to discuss the future of our coasts through smart tourism, marine conservation, and sustainable water management.” He reminded everyone that Andalusia aims to lead the blue transition in Europe: “Looking to the sea is looking to the future. Our Sustainable Blue Economy Strategy places water, innovation, and climate adaptation at the heart of regional policies.”Advertisement
Yolanda de Aguilar, Secretary General for Tourism of the Andalusian Government, highlighted that blue …