The Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) met with the Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism of Greece last week in order to offer the United Nations’ specialized agency’s support for sustainable tourism.
Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili was in Athens for discussions with political leaders, as well as high-level representatives from the private sector. The discussions focused on the key issues of harnessing tourism as a driver of education and opportunities for all, encouraging entrepreneurship, and promoting tourism investment. Mr. Pololiksahvili had this to say about the offer:
“Greece is one of the world’s true tourism leaders. They also chair the UNWTO Regional Commission for Europe, highlighting the country’s commitment to international cooperation and to sustainable and responsible tourism. I am delighted to be further strengthening our partnership and look forward to working more closely with Greece to make sure as many people as possible, including rural and coastal communities, are able to enjoy the many benefits tourism can bring.”
Greece’s Commitment With the UNWTO
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis welcomed UNWTO’s visit and support of the national tourism sector and showed a sincere interest for prospects of the cooperation with the Greek tourism sector. At the same time, Minister of Tourism for Greece Harry Theocharis expressed his thanks to the UNWTO for the official visit and welcomed its readiness to work alongside Greece in promoting year-round tourism and digital transformation. Theocharis also had this to add:
“Working with UNWTO gives Greece the chance to learn from the lessons of other countries, share positive experiences and build useful partnerships in the areas of education, innovation and sustainable development.”
European Context
The UNWTO also welcomed Greece’s commitment to sustainable tourism development, making the case for tourism as a pillar of stability in uncertain times.
The visit of the UNWTO to Greece comes as UNWTO assumes leadership of the global tourism sector’s response to the climate challenge. Later this week, Secretary-General Pololikashvili will address the European Parliament’s Committee on Transport and Tourism (TRAN). The intervention in Brussels will be made against the backdrop of the first meeting of the Tourism Task Force, with its Members to discuss the place of sustainable tourism in the European Green Deal, including both the opportunities and challenges.
About the UNWTO
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), a United Nations specialized agency, is the leading international organization with the decisive and central role in promoting the development of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism. It serves as a global forum for tourism policy issues and a practical source of tourism know-how. Its membership includes 159 countries, 6 territories, 2 permanent observers and over 500 Affiliate Members.
Source: HospitalityNet
