Africa-Americas tourism cooperation strengthened at UN summit
Tourism leaders from Africa and the Americas have agreed to enhance cross-continental cooperation through the 'Punta Cana Declaration' at the first joint meeting of UN Tourism's Regional Commissions in the Dominican Republic.
The landmark summit, attended by 200 high-level participants including 14 ministers from 27 countries, focused on developing strategic partnerships through innovation, education, investments and creative industries.
Zurab Pololikashvili, UN Tourism Secretary-General, highlighted the summit's role in building bridges between the regions, while Executive Director Natalia Bayona addressed challenges including limited connectivity and regulatory barriers affecting cross-tourism relationships.
The Punta Cana Declaration outlines commitments to boost strategic investments, enhance skills development, support innovation, promote creative industries, and strengthen inter-regional cooperation. Key focus areas include improving air connectivity, expanding tourism education, supporting start-ups, and developing cultural routes.
The summit emphasized the importance of joint investment initiatives for driving green tourism transitions in both regions, with particular attention to infrastructure development and the hotel sector.
Source: TTN