“In recent times, the international community, including world tourism leaders and United Nations officials, has begun to address the pressing concerns of our era - climate change and socio-political unrest. I am pleased to see that these existential threats to global tourism and humanity are now receiving attention at the highest levels of government.
“I want to share five guiding principles we’ve crafted, aligning with the United Nations’ focus on people, planet, and prosperity, but adding partnership and peace.
“Our diverse region, with its multitude of religions, cultures and people, is a unique canvas upon which we can paint a picture of world peace.
“I propose that we make 2026, the 75th anniversary of PATA, the “Year of Peace Tourism.” Let’s make tourism a cornerstone of the solution. On September 21, 2026, which coincides with World Peace Day, we could lead an initiative to reduce cross-cultural tensions and build bridges between communities globally. Tourism, as a catalyst for intercultural dialogue, has the power to unite people, inspire understanding, and break down barriers.”
PTM 2023) attracted over 1,000 participants from 46 global destinations. Hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, the participants at the two-day event included 159 sellers from 92 organisations and 15 destinations, along with 196 buyers from 191 organisations and 38 source markets.
Our diverse region, with its multitude of religions, cultures and people, is a unique canvas upon which we can paint a picture of world peace. I propose that we make 2026, the 75th anniversary of PATA, the Year of Peace Tourism
– Peter Semone
Participants had a chance to gain insights into the dynamic landscape of global sustainability trends, shedding light on how responsible practices are shaping industries worldwide during the PTM Forum.
“The Ministry of Tourism for the Government of India has been one of our most valuable members and active partner for more than 60 years. Based on their commitment and enthusiasm in organising PATA Travel Mart, we at PATA are excited to facilitate engagement between India and the rest of the world through this event,” said Semone.
Semone went on to say, “As members of the PATA community, we can be a catalyst for change. Our region is like a living museum with an emporium of natural and cultural assets, unlike any other place on earth.
“PATA is serious about protecting our region, home to a staggering 4.3 billion individuals, representing 60 per cent of the world’s population, in fact,” he said.
Sustainability is the interconnected tapestry that binds governments, businesses and communities. We must remember that sustainability is not merely a concept, but a way of life woven into the very DNA of our thoughts and actions, shaping the path to a brighter, more sustainable future, says Semone.
The Chairman of PATA also took the occasion to express his gratitude to the Ministry of Tourism for their gracious hosting. He hailed the “Travel for Life” initiative as a truly fantastic endeavour that merits replication on a global scale.
Indian Secretary of Tourism, V. Vidyavati, emphasised the pivotal role of the PATA Travel Mart as a catalyst for tourism growth in the Asia Pacific region. She stressed the unifying power of tourism and underscored PATA’s recognition of this as a platform for mutual learning and exchange. Additionally, Vidyavati expounded on the “Travel for Life” initiative, highlighting its inspiration from the LiFE Mission, which focuses on promoting greener, cleaner, and harmonious development for all tourist destinations.
The tourism sector is an important part of the Indian economy contributing $143 billion to the GDP in 2023, according to Investindia.gov.in. It also creates jobs for millions of people, with employment from tourism reaching 88 million in 2023.
The government estimates that the sector could contribute $350 billion to the GDP by 2030. This would create millions of new jobs and boost economic growth.
Founded in 1951 and headquartered in Bangkok, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) stands as a globally recognized not-for-profit organization, renowned for its pivotal role in fostering responsible development in travel and tourism throughout the Asia Pacific region.
The PATA Travel Mart stands as a key international trade exhibition catering to the tourism sector, serving as a nexus for trade interactions between global buyers and sellers, predominantly from the Asia Pacific region. The Mart brings together exhibitors and attendees spanning diverse sectors, creating an invaluable platform for networking, learning, and collaboration, both on a global scale and with a specific focus on the Asia Pacific region.
PATA introduces new CEO
The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) has appointed Noor Ahmad Hamid as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective October 1, 2023. His appointment for a three-year term is expected to usher in a new era for PATA as one of the world’s most influential industry associations dedicated to promoting responsible travel and tourism within the Pacific Asia region.
A Malaysian citizen, Noor, 60, has had a distinguished 35 years career in travel and tourism, including the last 13 years specialising in the critical Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) sector.