About the Open Letter on Travel and Tourism

It is undeniable that in spite of its growing relevance and proven contribution to GDP (3% to 5% worldwide), jobs (7% to 8% of all jobs) and exports (30% of the world’s exports of services), Travel and Tourism still lacks due political and economic recognition.

In this framework, UNWTO and WTTC have decided to join hands in their common goal of mainstreaming Travel and Tourism in the global agenda and position tourism as a driver of economic growth and development.

UNWTO and WTTC will present an Open Letter to Heads of State and Government worldwide, highlighting the importance of Travel and Tourism. In turn, Heads of State and Government will accept this letter in acknowledgement of the relevance of travel and tourism in facing today’s global challenges.

Latest news
05 Jun 13
Press Release 		President of Cyprus – tourism key for the country
UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai emphasized the importance of tourism to the Cyprus economy and highlighted the existing opportunities to grow the sector. ”The country is open for business and...
24 Apr 13
Press Release 		Encouraging Travel Facilitation and Connectivity in Asia Pacific
The  Joint Meeting of the UNWTO Commission for East Asia and the Pacific and UNWTO Commission for South Asia (CAP-CSA) are UNWTO´s annual regional statutory events, and the largest, most...
18 Apr 13
Press Release 		Tourism can build better understanding between cultures says President of Turkey accepting the UNWTO/WTTC Open Letter on Travel and Tourism
Meeting UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, in Ankara, President Gül emphasised tourism’s contribution to “global peace, interaction between cultures and to the efforts to overcome biases”. Other...
11 Feb 13
Press Release 		Responsible growth and accessibility to be at the heart of tourism development says President of Uruguay accepting the UNWTO/WTTC Open Letter on Travel and Tourism
“Our country needs and promotes responsible and accessible tourism for all”, said President Mujica meeting UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai. “Uruguay is a role model in many areas but...
07 Dec 12
Press Release 		Tourism key for jobs and exports says President of Portugal accepting the UNWTO/WTTC Open Letter on Travel and Tourism
Meeting UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, and WTTC President and CEO, David Scowsill, President Cavaco Silva recalled that tourism directly represents 9% of Portugal’s GDP and 8% of the workforce...