COP29 is making history by including the tourism sector in the global climate agenda for the first time, said Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Report informs.
Speaking at the First Ministerial Meeting on Enhanced Climate Action in Tourism, held as part of COP29, the secretary-general emphasized the significance of hosting such a major event in Baku, Azerbaijan. "It is not easy to organize an event of this magnitude. Holding this event in Baku is truly a historic step. I congratulate Azerbaijan, the entire region, and the world on hosting this important event here. This is the first time COP is being held here," he said.
He added that it is uncertain whether COP will return to the region in the next 10 or 20 years. "For the first time in the history of COP, tourism-related issues have been included in the agenda, which is of great importance for the sector. In the past 29 years, tourism has never been discussed. This is the first time, and therefore, today is a historic day for the tourism industry," he also pointed out.
Pololikashvili expressed his delight that this groundbreaking event is taking place in Azerbaijan, as it marks the beginning of an important tradition. He also highlighted the crucial role of tourism in ensuring peace, stating, "When we talk about peace, tourism is one of the most powerful tools."
The secretary-general acknowledged that climate change and environmental problems, including food waste, impact tourism and create new challenges in the industry.
He recalled attending the COP event in Glasgow four years ago, where he presented UNWTO members with the opportunity to be part of the solution in the fight against climate change.
"To date, there are 800 signatories, and we continue our work. We know it is not enough, but we are progressing step by step. Cooperation and unity are crucial. Solidarity is essential in issues such as peace, climate change, and food waste," Pololikashvili concluded.