Mexico and the European Union have signed an agreement to bolster bilateral tourism, authorities said.

"Tourism is an activity that has the ability to generate economic growth, development and employment, as well as social integration. Therefore, we must acknowledge the benefits of promoting tourism cooperation between Mexico and Europe," a joint EU-Mexican government statement said.

European Commissioner for Industry and Entrepreneurship Antonio Tajani and Mexican Tourism Secretary Gloria Guevara signed the agreement.

The pact calls for the adoption of measures to ease the flow of visitors between Europe and Mexico, boost travel promotion, bolster the use of existing airlines and improve the availability of lodging.

Mexico registered a rise in visitors from Europe during the January-November 2011 period, compared to the same period in the prior year.

--IANS/EFE

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