The first Global Youth Tourism Summit aimed at empowering the youth to be active participants in decision-making processes in the tourism sector has been launched today February 2, 2022.
The summit which is scheduled to take place from 27th June to 3rd July in the Italian city of Sorrento is powered by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) with support from the Ministry of Tourism of Italy.
Addressing participants in a virtual brief the Secretary-General of UNWTO Zurab Pololikashvili said the initiative is geared at soliciting all the exciting ideas from the youth in building better and sustainable tourism for the future.
‘’Youth is high on the agenda of the United Nations and UNWTO is committed to finding and supporting the best young tourism talent – as this landmark event makes clear’’ Mr. Pololikashvili said.
‘’Tourism is a proven source of opportunity for young people – in cities and in rural communities, from every educational background and in every global region. As the sector evolves, we need to make sure young people have the skills and knowledge they need to be part of it’’
He added that cultural tourism will be one of the main topics to be discussed and want the young generation to be closer to their culture. Working in tourism is the right decision you made, and its prestigious very excited Secretary-General observed.
He expressed profound appreciation to the Minister of Italy Minister Garavaglia and his team for their hard work and commitment in organizing this summit.
Italy’s Minister of Tourism Garavaglia on his part said Sorrento is happy to welcome the exciting ideas from the youth as it set the right tone for the restart of the tourism sector.
“I think that more than others, young people have experienced the impact of restrictions in the past two years and they – continued the Minister – can play a great role in overcoming this crisis in the tourism sector.” Massimo Garavaglia. “We look forward to welcoming you all to beautiful Sorrento”, concluded Garavaglia
UNWTO’s Ambassador for Responsible Tourism and Ivorian soccer legend Didier Drogba in a recorded message pledged his utmost support for the historic event.
‘’Tourism is a great sector full of positive objectives and humanity in a sector where children of the world have to be protagonists and am so looking forward to being with you all physically in Sorrento this year .’’
He expressed his appreciation to the Secretary-General and Italy’s Minister of Tourism for the initiative which he deemed very important for the planet and the current generation.
The summit will include a series of international events, workshops, and other educational initiatives, that will give children and youth a unique platform to share and discuss ideas and shape their visions for the future of sustainable tourism within the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
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