The Maldives has played a crucial role in co-chairing the 36th Joint Commission Meeting of the United Nation’s World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Commission for East Asia and the Pacific and the Commission for South Asia (CAP-CSA). The meeting, held in Cebu, Philippines, brought together representatives from tourism member countries, affiliate members, and international and regional institutions.
Representing the Maldives at the meeting was Minister of State for Tourism, Dr. Abdulla Niyaz. In his address, Dr. Niyaz underscored the critical importance of developing the tourism industry based on sustainable policies. He highlighted that, while the Maldives is celebrated for its luxury tourism market, the principles of sustainable tourism are fundamental to the country’s tourism development strategy.
Key discussions during the meeting focused on the implementation of eco-friendly tourism and integrating sustainable practices into the tourism industry. The dialogue explored product development and green transformation, promoting innovation, and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through green initiatives. Participants also reviewed policies related to skill development and training, emphasising the necessity of equipping employees within the tourism industry to adapt to these new sustainable practices.
The Maldives’ tourism ministry expressed confidence in the meeting’s potential to further promote sustainable tourism practices and strengthen relations with various countries in the Asia and Pacific region within the tourism sector.
The 36th Joint Commission Meeting of the UNWTO CAP-CSA serves as a significant platform for fostering collaboration and advancing sustainable tourism initiatives. The Maldives’ active participation and leadership in this meeting underscore its commitment to sustainable tourism and its role as a key player in the global tourism industry.
