Malta: WTTC adds José María Aznar and Nick Adams to Global Summit

International

More than 1,000 delegates from over 100 countries are expected in Valletta for the WTTC Global Summit from 7 to 9 October 2026

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The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced two additional speakers for its 26th Global Summit in Malta. Former Spanish Prime Minister José María Aznar and U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Tourism Nick Adams will join international tourism executives and government representatives at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta.

More than 1,000 delegates are expected, including around 200 CEOs and senior executives from the global Travel & Tourism sector. The three-day event will be held under the theme “FUTU[RE]SET”.

Leadership, investment and competitiveness

The programme will examine geopolitical change, investment, technology, connectivity and international competitiveness, with particular attention to cooperation between governments and the private sector.

Aznar, who served as Spanish Prime Minister from 1996 to 2004, will contribute to discussions on European competitiveness, international cooperation and the economic role of Travel & Tourism.

Adams, the first U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Tourism, will address the role of tourism in economic growth and international relations. “Tourism is diplomacy with a suitcase. I’m proud to bring America’s voice to Valletta and help lead the partnerships that will define the next decade of travel,” he said.

More than 100 countries represented

WTTC President and CEO Gloria Guevara said the participation of Aznar and Adams would bring additional political experience to discussions involving tourism industry leaders.

“FUTU[RE]SET is about looking beyond today and asking what leadership, collaboration and investment are needed to build the future of our sector,” Guevara said.

The Summit will also explore how tourism can create employment, attract investment and generate economic opportunities while responding to a changing global environment.

Malta in the international tourism spotlight

Hosting the summit will give Malta an opportunity to present its tourism industry, heritage, hospitality and international connectivity to executives, government representatives and international media.

Malta Tourism Authority CEO Carlo Micallef said the gathering would provide a platform for dialogue between business and government while showcasing the destination to some of the most influential figures in international tourism.