The 2016 World Travel Market (WTM) Conference closed this week with an inspirational panel presentation in honor of the 30th anniversary of the International Institute for Peace through Tourism (IIPT) entitled, “Building a Sustainable and Peaceful World through Tourism – In Support of the UN International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development.”
A line up of tourism celebrities addressed the session.
This session highlighted the progress made in tourism as a driver of peace and sustainability over the past 30 years, and the vision of industry leaders for further progress in the years ahead. In 2013 alone, international tourist arrivals grew by 5% to 1.087 billion and generated US$1.4 trillion in export earnings. This is a massive industry that can be used as a force for good.
eTN Publisher Juergen Steinmetz posted on his facebook: “I was able to address the IIPT conference here at the World Travel Market in London earlier. 30’years peace through tourism honoring Louis D’Amore and his work , so timely on this day of uncertainty. I told the audience the United States will remain a welcoming and peaceful country. The word Aloha we made our way of life in Hawaii also means peace, and peace through tourism is what we stand for. I added we will keep anyone in check who would try different. Aloha!”
Pictured is etn.travel’s publisher, Juergen T. Steinmetz, addressing the panel audience.
