WTTC and World Governments Summit strengthen public-private tourism cooperation - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the World Governments Summit Organization (WGS) are stepping up cooperation between governments and the private sector on the future of global tourism. The two organisations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at creating a platform for closer dialogue between policymakers and industry leaders.

The partnership combines WTTC's international network of private-sector tourism executives with the World Governments Summit's connections to governments and decision-makers. The objective is to develop common approaches to some of the major issues affecting the industry's long-term competitiveness and resilience.

Technology, sustainability and workforce in focus

The agreement comes as the tourism industry faces a combination of technological change, sustainability requirements, workforce challenges and changing traveller expectations.

WTTC and WGS plan to exchange knowledge and best practices while encouraging closer public-private cooperation on policymaking and investment. Joint initiatives are also expected to focus on innovation, destination development and tourism ecosystems capable of adapting to future economic and technological changes.

A central element will be cooperation within the framework of the World Governments Summit and its global dialogue on the future of tourism. The organisations also intend to work together on events and initiatives in the United Arab Emirates and internationally.

Bringing policymakers and industry leaders together

"The future of Travel & Tourism will be shaped by the strength of collaboration between governments and the private sector," said Gloria Guevara, President and CEO of WTTC.

"This partnership with the World Governments Summit marks a new era of public-private cooperation, bringing together policymakers and industry leaders to address shared challenges and seize new opportunities for growth."

Guevara said closer cooperation could contribute to a more resilient, innovative and sustainable tourism sector while supporting economic development, employment and prosperity in destinations around the world.

WGS expands international partnerships

The World Governments Summit was established in 2013 as a platform bringing together governments, businesses and thought leaders to discuss innovation, technology and responses to global challenges.

"The World Governments Summit continues to reinforce its role as a global platform bringing together governments, international organizations, the private sector and thought leaders to build strategic partnerships that enrich global dialogue, facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise, and contribute to developing innovative solutions to future challenges," said Mohamed Al Sharhan, Managing Director of WGS.

The agreement was formally signed by Guevara and Al Sharhan and is endorsed by Mohammad Abdullah Al Gergawi, UAE Minister of Cabinet Affairs and Chairman of the World Governments Summit.

Joint projects planned in UAE and internationally

Under the agreement, WTTC and WGS intend to develop joint projects around shared strategic priorities and strengthen links between tourism executives, governments and international experts.

The cooperation is also designed to give the private sector a stronger role in discussions about future tourism policies while providing governments with direct access to industry expertise.

By combining their respective networks, the organisations aim to address issues ranging from investment and destination development to innovation and international cooperation, with the broader goal of supporting tourism's contribution to economic growth, employment and global connectivity.

Image Credit: © WTTC