Varadero, Cuba - April 30, 2024

The development of the 69th meeting of the UN Regional Commission for Tourism in the Americas marks a significant milestone in the push towards a sustainable, community-oriented, and prosperous tourism future in the region. Over three days filled with constructive dialogue, government leaders, tourism experts, civil society representatives, and key players from the private sector gathered in Varadero, Cuba, to discuss innovative and collaborative strategies that promote inclusive, community-based, and responsible tourism development in the Americas.

The 69th meeting of the UN Regional Commission for Tourism in the Americas highlighted the importance of addressing the current challenges in the tourism sector, including mitigating environmental impact, promoting social inclusion, and generating equitable economic opportunities.

The Minister of Tourism of the Dominican Republic, David Collado, and current President of the Regional Commission for the Americas, made an emphatic call to all member countries to adopt a collaborative, different, and above all, regenerative approach under four key words: Unity, Collaboration, Connection, and Regional Agenda. "We must ensure that tourism development goes hand in hand with environmental protection, social inclusion, and respect for human rights," Collado stated. "Only then can we build a prosperous and equitable region for present and future generations." During the event, the commitment of the member countries of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Americas was highlighted in implementing concrete policies and actions to promote responsible tourism that benefits all stakeholders. Additionally, the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors, as well as the participation of civil society and local communities, was emphasized as key elements for the success of sustainable tourism initiatives. This 69th meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Americas reflects the strong commitment of the countries in the region to the principles of sustainable, community development and the promotion of tourism that contributes to the well-being of people and the care of the environment.