The leadership of UN Tourism has wrapped up a successful visit to China, strengthening strategic partnerships and promoting sustainable tourism efforts across major regions. Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili led the visit, meeting with high-ranking government officials, industry leaders, and international development agencies to enhance UN Tourism’s collaboration with China.
This visit represents a key milestone in the partnership between UN Tourism and China, highlighting their shared vision for advancing sustainable tourism and fostering global economic growth.
China’s Role in Global Tourism Leadership
According to Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, “China is a global leader in tourism, both as a source market and a top destination. The country is at the forefront of the digital transformation in tourism while ensuring the sector contributes to international sustainable development.”
Supporting the Global Development Initiative
Throughout the visit, Pololikashvili reaffirmed UN Tourism’s support for China’s Global Development Initiative (GDI) and the vision of a “Community with a Shared Future for Mankind.” These initiatives align with President Xi Jinping’s focus on global solidarity. UN Tourism continues to prioritize inclusive and innovative partnerships that align with the UN’s 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
Pololikashvili held discussions with the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) to explore future collaborations on Chinese government-funded projects aimed at supporting UN Tourism Member States. These projects will focus on sustainable development and tourism initiatives. The Secretary-General also highlighted GDI and the Community with a Shared Future for Mankind during his meetings with officials in Shanghai, Hainan, and CIDCA.
Echoing President Xi Jinping’s belief that “solidarity is strength, but division leads nowhere,” Pololikashvili emphasized the importance of global cooperation for achieving sustainable development and shared success.
Strengthening High-Level Engagements
In Shanghai, Pololikashvili met with senior officials, including Chen Jining, a Politburo member of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and Secretary of the Shanghai Municipal Committee. The discussions focused on regional tourism development, sustainable growth, digital transformation, and investment opportunities, paving the way for future collaboration.
Partnership with Trip.com Group
The UN Tourism delegation also strengthened its ties with China’s private sector, recognizing the crucial role businesses play in advancing tourism. A key part of this was a visit to Trip.com Group’s headquarters, where discussions focused on using digital innovation, integrating technology, and promoting sustainable travel practices in line with UN Tourism’s global objectives.
Engagements in Hainan and the Bo’ao Forum for Asia 2025
In Hainan Province, Pololikashvili met with the Governor, Vice Governor, and senior officials from the Hainan Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism. The meetings emphasized the importance of collaboration between UN Tourism and China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The Secretary-General also attended the Bo’ao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2025, underscoring tourism’s role in fostering regional economic cooperation and sustainable development.
Strengthening Ties with the Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF)
Pololikashvili also met with Pansy Ho, Vice Chairman and Secretary-General of the Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF) and UN Tourism Ambassador. They discussed ongoing strategic cooperation and preparations for the 2025 GTEF, emphasizing tourism’s critical role in driving global economic growth and international collaboration.
Related topics:
- Thai AirAsia Launches Daily Chiang Mai–Taipei–Sapporo Flights Starting June
- PCMA and BEIA Form Strategic Alliance to Boost APAC Events
- Hong Kong Airlines Launches Direct Flights to Hulunbuir to Strengthen Regional Ties
