VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Malta has been recognised for its leadership in tourism at the opening of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) summit, with the country praised for demonstrating the benefits of strong government-industry partnerships.
The government received the award during the opening ceremony of the summit, which has brought together hundreds of government officials and tourism industry leaders.
The WTTC described Malta as a “small nation with a global voice” and highlighted its cooperation between the public and private sectors.
Prime Minister Robert Abela said Malta was on track to welcome a record number of tourists this year.
He said travel and tourism account for around 17% of Malta’s gross domestic product, attributing the growth to travellers’ confidence in the country and the Maltese tourism offering.
Abela said modern travellers were increasingly seeking authentic experiences and good value for money rather than simply focusing on visitor numbers.
He stressed that tourism must create lasting value and said Malta’s long-term tourism strategy should consider what kind of country is being left for future generations.
Wellbeing, he added, should go hand in hand with tourism, while sustainability must be integrated into the sector rather than treated as an afterthought.
Abela also called for higher standards in infrastructure and skills, saying these would benefit both residents and visitors.
The summit, dubbed the “Davos of tourism”, is being held in Malta and has attracted prominent international figures, including former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau.
– Photo Pexels –
(ITALPRESS).
