Barcelona, Spain – In a productive working lunch held today, UNWTO UN Tourism Special Advisor, Mr. Mohamed Ali Janah, engaged in detailed discussions with Zurab Pololikashvili, the Secretary General of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). The meeting, which took place in Barcelona, focused on strategic initiatives aimed at boosting tourism in emerging markets, with particular attention to the Maldives.
Mr. Janah, whose role includes guiding global tourism policies and strategies, expressed optimism about the future. “It was a privilege to have had an in-depth conversation with Secretary General Pololikashvili. His vision for tourism development, especially for countries like the Maldives, is both inspiring and practical,” stated Mr. Janah.
During the lunch, which was marked by a collaborative spirit, several key topics were addressed. These included sustainable tourism practices, investment in tourism infrastructure, and initiatives to enhance the resilience of tourism-dependent economies in the face of global challenges.
Pololikashvili outlined several forthcoming projects and policies designed to foster growth in the tourism sector. “The Maldives holds immense potential, and we are committed to supporting its development through innovative and sustainable tourism initiatives,” Pololikashvili said.
The meeting underscored the UNWTO’s commitment to fostering international cooperation in tourism and highlighted the organization’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable and inclusive growth in the sector. Mr. Janah, reflecting on the discussions, noted the positive outlook for the Maldives and hinted at upcoming announcements. “Good things are on the horizon for the Maldives, Inshallah,” he concluded.
This working lunch is part of a series of high-level engagements by the UNWTO aimed at strengthening global tourism ties and addressing the unique challenges faced by tourism-dependent nations.