The achiepalogo islands of Palau has initiated steps to join The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).
The Secretary General of the UNWTO Zurab Pololikashvili announced the news after receiving a letter from the president of the islands confirming its intent. In a tweet post welcoming the Oceania island to the UN Tourism organization, Mr Pololikashvili said
“Great news – #Palau ???????? joins #UNWTO! Just received a letter from H.E. President Remengesau. I am happy that Palau, one of the world’s most attractive island tourism destinations will enrich our big family. We look forward to greeting you at the General Assembly in September!”
The island became the latest country to join the organization. This comes after the United States government announced in a joint statement with UNWTO their eagerness to rejoin the UNWTO.
Expanding the membership was one of the Ambassador Pololikashvili’ pledge when he assumed position as the Secretary General in January 2018.
In his first interview with the media he said “ One of the top priorities will be to expand the UNWTO membership and attract new countries to join the organization for them to benefit from its services and activities
Palau is an archipelago of over 500 islands, part of the Micronesia region in the western Pacific Ocean.
The Republic of Palau is an island country located in the western Pacific Ocean.
The country contains approximately 340 islands, forming the western chain of the Caroline Islands in Micronesia, and has an area of 466 square kilometers (180 sq mi).
The most populous island is Koror. The capital Ngerulmud is located on the nearby island of Babeldaob, in Melekeok State. Palau shares maritime boundaries with the Philippines, Indonesia, and the Federated States of Micronesia.