Jamaica’s tourism minister Edmund Bartlett has used his address at the inaugural UN Sustainability Assembly to urge a united global effort to boost sustainable tourism.
He was addressing the United Nations General Assembly’s first Sustainability Week in New York; which has a particular focus on sustainable tourism.
Mr Bartlett has strong respect within the UN, having successfully lobbied for February 17 being named Annual Global Tourism Resilience Day.
In his address to the Assembly, Mr Bartlett said: “Allow me to express Jamaica’s appreciation for the support provided by the Member States of the United Nations in the General Assembly last year for the adoption of the resolution establishing February 17 as Global Tourism Resilience Day.”
“In Jamaica, our focus has shifted towards sustainable tourism that respects both our natural resources and cultural heritage, ensuring long-term economic viability and sustainability.
“The road to resilience is not one we can walk alone. Protecting global tourism, especially in Small Island Developing States (SIDS), requires a concerted, international effort to implement adaptive, forward-thinking policies that not only mitigate risks but also promote sustainable practices.”
“It is our shared responsibility to fortify the tourism sector against the inevitable challenges of the future. We must foster a global environment where resilience in tourism is not just an aspiration but an achievement.
“The establishment of the Global Tourism Resilience Fund is a critical step towards this goal. It embodies our collective commitment to a sustainable, resilient and prosperous future for all nations reliant on tourism.”
