Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, along with the Fijian Ambassador to Japan, Filimone Waqabaca, is actively participating in the Tourism Resilience Summit taking place in Sendai, Japan. This event is co-hosted by the Government of Japan and the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), gathering tourism leaders from throughout the Asia-Pacific region to discuss vital issues of post-pandemic recovery, sustainability, and resilience amid ongoing global challenges.
In his speech during the summit, Minister Gavoka emphasized Fiji’s dedication to developing a robust tourism industry that can withstand natural disasters, which have historically impacted the region. He remarked, “We have used these crises as an opportunity to rebuild stronger,” referencing Fiji’s resilience throughout past challenges, including the SARS outbreak, the Global Financial Crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gavoka’s address highlighted Fiji’s vision of reconstructing its tourism sector with a focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and overall resilience. He mentioned ongoing efforts to diversify tourism experiences and improve disaster readiness, recognizing the significant role that tourism plays in the Fijian economy. The minister noted that the approach involves creating a “stronger and diverse economic base” through effective public-private partnerships and forward-thinking policies.
The summit featured a Ministerial Meeting that commenced with Japan’s Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism, Saito Tetsuo, along with contributions from representatives including the Japan Tourism Agency Commissioner, UNWTO Executive Director, and Sendai’s Mayor. The discussions emphasized the critical need for proactive disaster preparedness and the establishment of robust recovery systems to navigate future crises.
Gavoka reiterated the goal of using the current recovery phase to enhance resilience, stating, “This also means creating policies and programs that not only guide us today but will serve us in the years to come.” With tourism recognized as a key pillar of Fiji’s economy, the sector’s prosperity hinges on innovative and sustainable strategies that support both growth and resilience.
In summary, this summit serves as a vital platform for reinforcing collaborative efforts among tourism leaders to ensure the continued viability and sustainability of tourism across the Asia-Pacific, ultimately bolstering economies and communities in the region. The initiatives discussed point toward a promising future where tourism can thrive despite challenges, showcasing a united front for recovery and resilience.
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