Secretary-General of United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Zurab Pololikashvili has praised the Maldives for its efforts in overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic. He made the statement while speaking at the 15th UNWTO Asia/Pacific Executive Training Programme on Tourism Policy and Strategy.
The training programme is being held in the Maldives at the Paradise Island Resort and Spa from October 6-8. The opening ceremony was inaugurated by Secretary-General Pololikashvili and Minister of Tourism Dr. Abdulla Mausoom.
Speaking at the ceremony, Secretary-General Pololikashvili praised the efforts of the Maldives in overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic and developing the tourism industry. He said he will continue to closely observe the work being done by stakeholders of the Maldives tourism industry in regards to their efforts to develop the industry.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Minister Mausoom said the Maldives has greatly benefited in its One Island One Resort concept, which has attracted more tourists compared to other countries. The minister also detailed the work being done to empower women in the Maldives tourism industry and further develop and market local tourism.
The UNWTO has convened the Asia and the Pacific Executive Training Programme on Tourism Policy and Strategy annually since 2006. The training programme is the only one of its kind in the region and is renowned for its stimulating content and thought-provoking discussions. The theme for the 15th edition of the training programme is Domestic Tourism as the National and International Long-term Tourism Strategy.