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UN Tourism and China Strengthen Partnership to Shape the Future of Global Tourism

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SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Dec. 5, 2024 – The UN World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) and China's Ministry of Culture and Tourism have reinforced their commitment to collaborate on key initiatives aimed at advancing global tourism. This strengthened partnership seeks to leverage tourism's potential as a driver of economic growth, sustainable development, and international cooperation.

High-Level Meeting in Beijing

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili recently met with China's Minister of Culture and Tourism, Sun Yeli, in Beijing to discuss shared priorities and advance the global tourism agenda. The meeting focused on key areas such as:

  • Positioning tourism within international development cooperation.
  • Promoting tourism education and skills development.
  • Enhancing tourism's contribution to rural development.

China's Leadership in Rural Tourism

UN Tourism acknowledged China's active participation in the Best Tourism Villages initiative. With seven new additions in 2024, China now boasts 15 villages recognized by UN Tourism for their commitment to sustainable tourism practices, making it the country with the most villages receiving this distinction.

Boosting Inbound Tourism to China

China's decision to extend the visa-free policy for citizens of 38 countries until the end of 2025 and to improve payment services for foreign visitors was also praised by UN Tourism. These measures are expected to significantly contribute to the growth of inbound tourism to China.

Charting a New Course for the Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF)

The official visit coincided with the Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF) Council Preparatory Meeting in Beijing. This meeting brought together key stakeholders to strategize and shape the future direction of GTEF.

Since its inception in Macao SAR in 2012, GTEF has served as a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration between tourism leaders from China and around the world. The Forum facilitates engagement between policymakers, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs to promote sustainable tourism development.

Strengthening Global Partnerships

The Preparatory Meeting included representatives from GTEF's long-standing partners and supporting units, including:

  • UN Tourism
  • World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC)
  • Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA)
  • European Travel Commission (ETC)
  • World Tourism Alliance (WTA)
  • World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF)
  • International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA)
  • China Chamber of Tourism
  • Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO)

UN Tourism's continued participation underscores its commitment to GTEF and its mission to foster global cooperation in the tourism sector.

GTEF: The 'Davos of Tourism'

Building on its decade-long legacy, GTEF is aiming to position itself as the 'Davos of Tourism.' This ambitious goal involves establishing the GTEF Council, a permanent governing body responsible for strategic leadership and decision-making.

The GTEF Council will work to solidify the Forum's role as a leading platform for innovation, collaboration, and knowledge sharing in the global tourism industry.

Looking Ahead

The strengthened partnership between UN Tourism and China, coupled with the strategic vision for GTEF, signals a promising future for global tourism. By working together, stakeholders can harness the power of tourism to drive sustainable economic growth, promote cultural understanding, and create a more inclusive and resilient tourism sector.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF)?

GTEF is a platform that brings together tourism stakeholders from around the world to discuss and promote sustainable tourism development.

2. What is the Best Tourism Villages initiative?

The Best Tourism Villages initiative by UN Tourism recognizes villages that are committed to sustainable tourism practices and offer authentic visitor experiences.

3. How is China promoting inbound tourism?

China is promoting inbound tourism by extending its visa-free policy for citizens of 38 countries and improving payment services for foreign visitors.

4. What is the goal of the GTEF Council?

The GTEF Council aims to provide strategic leadership and direction for GTEF, with the goal of positioning it as the 'Davos of Tourism.'

5. Where can I learn more about UN Tourism's work?

You can learn more about UN Tourism's initiatives and programs on its official website.