UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili speaking at the Ceremony

Since 1980, World Tourism Day has been held annually on 27th September with the aim of raising international awareness of the role, position and importance of tourism in cultural, economic, social and political life.

With the theme “Tourism and Peace” for World Tourism Day 2024, UN Tourism stresses the pursuit of peace is a never-ending endeavour. Tourism can act as a catalyst for peace and understanding between nations and cultures and assist in the process of reconciliation. The greatest power of tourism is not only to help economic growth, but also to bring people closer together.

Nonetheless, tourism also creates a platform for innovation and entrepreneurship. By encouraging innovative solutions and new business models, tourism can boost economic growth and provide valuable opportunities for young talent. Supporting tourism start-up initiatives can contribute to promoting sustainable development and peace. By investing in the young generation, providing proper education and training, and encouraging them to participate in the tourism field, we can give them the opportunity of seeing things in a new, creative and energetic perspective for tourism development.

Overview of the Ceremony

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili emphasised: “Every journey leads to connection and tourism connects the world together. Tourism creates trust and respect, is a common foundation for cooperation, development and prosperity”. With the effort in developing rural tourism, UN Tourism hopes that nobody is left behind and economies develop fairly and equally. By working together we can bring about a brighter future. On this occasion, UN Tourism also declared the vision of multilateralism, respect for international law and United Nations values. And the cohesion of the entire industry will make tourism a beacon of hope.

In the Message For World Tourism Day: "Tourism and Peace", Mr. António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General indicated, Sustainable tourism can transform communities - creating jobs, fostering inclusion and strengthening local economies.

By valuing and preserving cultural and natural heritage, it can help reduce tensions and nurture peaceful coexistence.

Tourism can also promote economic interdependence between nations, encouraging cooperation and peaceful development. Every traveller can be an ambassador, engaging respectfully with local populations, recognizing our diversity and shared humanity, and the values that unite us all.

“As we celebrate tourism, let us travel responsibly, build bridges, and promote mutual respect among cultures and nations. Together, we can harness the power of tourism to advance peace and prosperity for all”, exclaimed United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres.

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