In the countdown to its highly anticipated 25th General Assembly, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is gearing up to welcome top tourism authorities and high-level delegates from over 150 countries in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
According to unwto.org, this biennial gathering serves as the supreme governing body of UNWTO, providing a platform for Member States worldwide to deliberate on the organization’s Program of Work and tackle the pressing challenges currently facing the tourism industry.
Amidst the backdrop of global recognition, key figures from leading international organizations, including the United Nations, are expressing their commendation for UNWTO’s pivotal role in guiding tourism through crises and towards recovery and transformation. The upcoming General Assembly, scheduled for October 18-19, has garnered significant interest and support from leaders across diverse sectors.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres acknowledges the transformative power of tourism, emphasizing its potential to bridge cultures, generate opportunities, and promote sustainable development. He expresses confidence in UNWTO’s ability to carry this vision forward for a better future.
Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), underscores the economic importance of tourism for development. She praises UNWTO Member States for their efforts in transforming the sector, emphasizing UNCTAD’s commitment to collaboration in achieving shared goals.
Juan Carlos Salazar, Secretary-General of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), highlights the partnership between UNWTO and ICAO in leveraging technology and shared commitments to innovation. Their joint efforts aim to harness the full potential of global tourism growth, empowering youth with high-value jobs and setting an example for sustainable practices.
European Commission Vice-President Margaritis Schinas recognizes the resilience of tourism in Europe and worldwide post-COVID-19. While celebrating the industry’s rebound, he emphasizes the importance of not forgetting the lessons learned during the pandemic. The UNWTO General Assembly, with its diverse representation from public, private, non-profit, and academic sectors, stands out as the ideal forum to address global challenges.
As the world awaits the outcomes of the 25th UNWTO General Assembly, the stage is set for a collaborative effort to shape the future of tourism, foster sustainability, and navigate the evolving landscape of global travel.
