Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, along with Fijian Ambassador to Japan, Filimone Waqabaca, are representing Fiji at the Tourism Resilience Summit in Sendai, Japan. This significant event, jointly hosted by the Government of Japan and the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), has brought together tourism leaders from the Asia-Pacific region to discuss recovery efforts post-pandemic, sustainability, and resilience in light of global challenges.
During his speech at the Summit, Minister Gavoka emphasized Fiji’s dedication to enhancing its tourism sector’s resilience, acknowledging the country’s exposure to natural disasters. He stated, “We have used these crises as an opportunity to rebuild stronger,” referring to the tourism sector’s ability to navigate historical challenges such as SARS, the Global Financial Crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gavoka highlighted Fiji’s vision for a tourism sector focused on sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience. He discussed plans to diversify tourism offerings and improve disaster resilience, acknowledging the essential role of tourism in Fiji’s economy. His statements reflected a strategic move toward establishing a “stronger and diverse economic base” through sustainable public-private partnerships and progressive policies.
The Summit featured a Ministerial Meeting led by Japan’s Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism, Saito Tetsuo, with insights from the Japan Tourism Agency Commissioner, UNWTO Executive Director, and the Mayor of Sendai. The discussions centered on the necessity for proactive disaster preparedness and resilient recovery strategies to effectively manage future challenges.
Leaders at the Summit converged on the need for collaborative approaches that not only address the impacts of natural hazards but also foster innovation and transformation in the tourism sector. As Gavoka stated, “We’re using this recovery to build resilience. This also means creating policies and programs that not only guide us today but will serve us in the years to come.”
In conclusion, with tourism serving as a cornerstone of Fiji’s economy, the future of this vital sector lies in adaptive strategies that promote growth alongside sustainability. This Summit is a hopeful indication that Fiji is taking proactive steps toward rebuilding a more resilient and sustainable tourism industry.
Overall, this event underscores a collective commitment within the tourism sector to thrive amid challenges, and such foresight is essential for long-term success in a post-pandemic landscape.
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