Ahead of the event, key figures from major international Organizations, including the United Nations, have expressed their appreciation for the role of UNWTO and affirmed their interest in the upcoming General Assembly. UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated that "Tourism brings progress. As one of the largest sectors of the world economy, it has the great power to build bridges between cultures, generate new opportunities and foster sustainable development."

"However, Tourism is also impacted by interconnected global challenges. I know we can count on the United Nations World Tourism Organization to carry this vision forward and together build a better future for people and the planet," he added.

For his part, the Vice President of the European Commission, Margaritis Schinas, said that "Tourism in Europe and around the world has recovered strongly from the devastating effects of Covid-19. However, with this discovery we must not forget the lessons of the pandemic nor ignore the global challenges that continue to confront our economies and societies... there is no better place for this than the uniquely diverse gathering of the world's tourism leaders from the public, private, non-profit and academic sectors that embodies the UNWTO General Assembly".

Objectives of the event

At the General Assembly, Member States will discuss, debate and approve the UNWTO programme of work. In addition, UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili will present his report to all members, highlighting how core priorities have been promoted over the past two years, with a special focus on investment in tourism, education and innovation.

Within the framework of the General Assembly, UNWTO will also convene several of its key statutory bodies and bring together the Sector's leaders in thematic events dedicated to its main priorities for tourism.