Perth has welcomed hundreds of tourism experts, investors, operators and specials guests to the opening of The World Travel & Tourism Council summit at Crown today.
Among the speakers are the 68th United States Secretary of State John Kerry who will headline the world’s biggest travel and tourism conference and conservationist and TV personality who is Robert Irwin set to take to the stage.
WTTC president & CEO, Julia Simpson and WTTC chair Greg O’Hara, the Hon. Roger Cook MLA, Premier Western Australia, will open the Global Summit on 9 Oct.
Simpson will invite Secretary Kerry to share insights in navigating the international political landscape, forging strong alliances, and facilitating international cooperation for a more resilient and sustainable future.
Meanwhile, Robert Irwin will share stories from his adventures in the wild, and how travel and tourism can play a vital role in creating a future where nature is enjoyed while being protected and celebrated.
Under the theme “Ancient Land: New Perspectives,” this year’s Global Summit will spotlight Australia’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders, emphasising its innovation and sustainable growth.
Industry trailblazers from across the globe will come together in the West Australian capital to continue efforts for a safer, more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future in travel and rourism.
Other notable speakers include Di Bain, Chair, Tourism Western Australia; Audrey Hendley, President, American Express Travel; Matt Goldberg, President & Group CEO, Tripadvisor; Jane Sun, Group CEO, Trip.com; Frank Marini, President & CEO, Railbookers Group; Jason Waters, CEO, Perth Airport; Kelly Craighead, President & CEO, CLIA; Francis Gatare, CEO, Rwanda Development Board; Christie Travers-Smith, Head of Retail and Travel EMEA Partnerships, Google, and many other business leaders from around the world.
“We are delighted to have such influential speakers confirmed for our Global Summit in the beautiful city of Perth,” Simpson said. “This is our first ever major event in the Oceania region, and it will bring together many of the world’s most powerful leaders in our sector to discuss and secure its long-term future, which is critical to economies and jobs around the world.”
Official government delegations from around the world and representing more than 25 countries will be in attendance, with delegations from several G20 economies, including Argentina, Australia, China, Mexico, South Africa, and the U.S.
Delegations from other major economies include Nigeria, Peru, Philippines, Thailand, and the UAE, will also be participating, with the Deputy Prime Ministers of the Bahamas and Fiji also in attendance.
A new addition to WTTC’s Global Summit, the Investors’ Nest will see university students from around the world pitch their ideas for sustainable tourism to Travel & Tourism investors in a Shark Tank-style format. The winner will be announced during at the end of the Global Summit.
The World Travel & Tourism Council recognises the Whadjuk people of the Noongar Nation, where the Global Summit is being held, and joins Tourism Western Australia in recognising Aboriginal peoples as the traditional custodians of Western Australia. “We extend our deepest respects to the Elders, both past and present, and express our admiration for the rich diversity and enduring cultures of Aboriginal communities across Australia and embrace their vital role and ongoing contributions.”
