Tourism leaders from Africa and Americas pledge to work together
In a landmark summit, tourism officials from Africa and the Americas have pledged to work together to boost sustainable and inclusive tourism development across both continents. The gathering, which marked the first joint meeting of UN Tourism's Regional Commissions for Africa and the Americas, culminated in the adoption of the "Punta Cana Declaration".
The two-day event, held in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, brought together about 200 high-level participants, including 14 ministers from 27 countries. Discussions centred on education and investments in the tourism sector, with a focus on leveraging innovation and creative industries.
UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili hailed the summit as a unique platform for forging connections between the two regions. The Punta Cana Declaration outlines commitments to intensify joint efforts in several key areas:
1. Strengthening strategic investments and public-private partnerships
2. Prioritising skills development and training in tourism
3. Supporting innovation and start-ups in the sector
4. Promoting creative industries and cultural tourism
5. Enhancing inter-regional cooperation through market analysis and shared strategies
The summit also addressed the need for improved air connectivity between Africa and the Americas, as well as the importance of investing in green tourism infrastructure.
This collaboration aims to capitalise on the historic ties and complementary cultures of the two regions, potentially opening new avenues for tourism growth and cultural exchange.
Source: eHotelier