The outgoing Secretary-General highlighted the progress made during his term of office, especially the institutional strengthening of UN Tourism, the modernization of its strategic agenda, the positioning of tourism as a pillar of global recovery after the pandemic and the expansion of international partnerships to ensure that tourism becomes a more resilient, inclusive and people-centered sector. In his words, “every challenge became an opportunity and every achievement turned into a shared celebration,” emphasizing the key role of dialogue and cooperation among all stakeholders.
He also referred to the road ahead and the need to maintain a common approach based on responsibility, transparency and innovation. He said that he leaves with the conviction that the Organization will continue moving forward towards a tourism industry that generates a positive and lasting impact on the communities that sustain it. “I step down with pride and with full confidence in the future of the Organization,” he noted, stressing that the foundations laid in recent years will serve as a platform for the incoming leadership.
Pololikashvili also voiced his recognition and support for his successor, Princess Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, who assumes the Secretary-Generalship committed to a roadmap grounded in sustainability, digitalization, equal opportunities and the promotion of peace through travel. The former Secretary-General stated that the new leader will guide UN Tourism “with the same determination, vision and sense of responsibility that have characterized the Organization’s collective work,” ensuring a smooth transition and a leadership capable of responding to the challenges of a constantly evolving global tourism sector.
Al Nowais’ appointment represents a milestone for UN Tourism, as she becomes the first woman to hold the Organization’s highest executive post. Her profile, with a recognized track record in promoting tourism projects for economic and social development, as well as her firm commitment to empowering new generations and safeguarding cultural heritage, has generated high expectations among Members, who trust that this period will ensure continuity in the Organization’s core values while at the same time innovating and adapting to the changing environment of the sector.
In his farewell, Pololikashvili highlighted the lessons learned, the relationships built and the honor it has been to serve the Organization, stating that the experiences shared will stay with him for the rest of his life. With a message full of warmth, he recalled that, beyond positions and circumstances, he “will always remain a friend” of the sector and of all those who have accompanied his work.
The new year thus begins for UN Tourism with firm institutional renewal and a strengthened vision to continue defending tourism as a global force for well-being, employment, sustainability and mutual understanding among cultures. The Organization reaffirms its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals and to supporting those countries that see tourism as a crucial source of economic prosperity and social cohesion.
With this change at the helm of the Secretariat, UN Tourism looks to the future with optimism and responsibility, determined to continue building a form of tourism that brings people together and transforms societies.
