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Commonwealth Secretariat press release

First Commonwealth Tourism Ministers’ Meeting

16 March 2004

Tourism Ministers of Commonwealth countries will hold their first meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on 20-21 March 2004, with the theme 'Promoting intra-Commonwealth Tourism'.

Initiated by the Government of Malaysia, the meeting will explore ways to promote tourism in Commonwealth countries. These include a proposed Commonwealth Centre for Tourism Promotion (CCTP), aimed at increasing tourist arrivals from both within and outside the Commonwealth, and enhancing investment in member countries.

The three-day event involves the Ministerial Meeting; the Tourism Business Forum (organised by the Commonwealth Business Council); and the Travel Mart (organised by Tourism Malaysia).

Topics likely to be tabled at the ministerial meeting include Tourism Promotion and Information Exchange; Tourism and the Economy - Strengthening the Linkages; Tourism Facilities and Common Security Arrangements (including travel advisories); Capacity Building for Sustainable Tourism and Quality Services; and Mobilising Investment into the Tourism Sector.

The ministers are expected to discuss factors that can threaten the growth of the tourism industry including public health scares and security matters, as well as ways to restore confidence among travellers. Measures to develop sustainable tourism and infrastructure will also be on the agenda.

Speaking before his departure for Malaysia, Commonwealth Secretary-General Don McKinnon said: 'I believe all Commonwealth countries can benefit from and contribute to globalisation through the promotion and development of tourism. The shared history, values and language among the people of the Commonwealth provides a good framework for boosting travel among Commonwealth countries. In particular, small states and Africa - two important Commonwealth constituencies - are not benefiting enough from

globalisation. It is a major challenge for us to assist these countries in identifying sectors with growth potential and in which they are competitive. Tourism is one sector that can help these countries benefit from globalisation and economic development, for it brings in foreign exchange earnings and creates employment and income. Indeed for many small states, tourism is central to their economic growth and well-being'.

Mr McKinnon said tourism can boost other industries such as food and agriculture, transport, communications and construction, but noted the benefits are not merely economic. 'The tourism industry can build bridges of friendship across cultures and bring the people of the Commonwealth closer, especially when we work together to promote our heritage, our landscapes and other attractions, and of course, our hospitality as well.'

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