Cusco (People's Daily) – Tourism ministers from the 21 APEC member economies issued a joint statement following their convening in Urubamba, Cusco, Peru on Sunday. The statement called for innovative approaches to address challenges in the sector.
Tourism ministers from the 21 APEC member economies take a group picture at 12th APEC Tourism Ministerial Meeting in Urubamba, Cusco, Peru, on June 9, 2024. (Photos: Song Yiran/People's Daily)
During the gathering, the ministers acknowledged evolving challenges in the tourism sector, including inflation, extreme weather, labor shortages and infrastructure strain due to pent-up demand.
Under the theme of "Innovating Pathways for Sustainable Tourism Growth," the statement highlights the need for innovative ways to tackle current challenges in the tourism sector. It emphasizes the benefits of transitioning tourism enterprises into the formal economy, which supports the growth of small- and medium-sized enterprises and builds resilience.
The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to building resilient tourism ecosystems capable of withstanding extreme weather, natural disasters and global health crises, thus safeguarding livelihoods, preserving cultural heritage and promoting inclusive growth.
The statement also highlighted the importance of promoting sustainable gastronomy, food production, processing and consumption patterns to minimize the environmental footprint of tourism activities in the region.
"We must continue our cooperation, exchange ideas, identify best practices and formulate joint strategies that promote sustainable growth and competitiveness in the tourism industry in our region, leaving a positive legacy for future generations," said Elizabeth Galdo, Peru's minister of foreign trade and tourism.
Peru's minister of foreign trade and tourism Elizabeth Galdo and vice president of World Travel and Tourism Council Virginia Messina answer questions during a press conference of the 12th APEC Tourism Ministerial Meeting in Urubamba, Cusco, Peru, on June 9, 2024.