The Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF) and the World Tourism
Organization (UNWTO) have announced the signing of a Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) on elevated partnership.
The MOU signifies an advancement in cooperation between the two
organisations and aims to promote international cooperation, cultural
exchange, and economic growth in the post-pandemic era. The agreement is
also expected to pave the way for new possibilities in the tourism,
economy, and culture fields.
The press conference, which took place on 21 April in Lisbon,
Portugal, was attended by several guests of honour, including the
Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the Portuguese Republic,
Zhao Bentang, and other representatives of the Macao SAR Government and
UNWTO.
GTEF and UNWTO also announced a new forum model that will enhance
international influence. Beginning in 2024, the location for GTEF will
alternate each year between international destinations and Macau to
promote cultural exchange and international cooperation. This move is
expected to consolidate Macau's status as a world centre of tourism and
leisure.
The 10th edition of GTEF is scheduled to convene in Macau in late
September 2023. Ministers, business leaders, and industry experts in the
fields of tourism, economy, culture, and commerce will gather to
discuss the opportunities for the recovery of the global tourism
economy.
GTEF has also invited Shanghai to join the 10th GTEF as the Featured
Chinese City and Italy as its Partner Country this year. The aim is to
promote exchange and collaboration in cultural tourism between different
cities, explore the potential of mutual cooperation between different
countries, and embrace new possibilities of recreational, leisure, and
sports tourism development.