Ban Ki-Moon urges states to work to maximise tourism potentials

September 27, 2015 2:21 PM

He said that this year´s World Tourism Day, highlighted the global potential of tourism for socio-economic development.

United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon addresses the media ahead of the U.N. General Debate at U.N. headquarters in New York September 16, 2015. REUTERS/Lucas Jackson

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon has urged members states to work together to maximise the immense potentials of tourism.

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Ban, in a message commemorating the World Tourism Day observed every September 27, 2015, said the potentials of tourism for sustainable development, was enormous.

He said as one of the world’s leading employment sectors, tourism provided important livelihood opportunities, helping to alleviate poverty and drive inclusive development.

The UN Chief told world leaders that with the new sustainable development agenda, tourism should be recognised for its ability to create jobs, promote local culture and products, and champion the conservation and sustainable use of marine and terrestrial habitats.

Ban said that with no fewer than one billion international tourists now traveling the world each year, tourism had become a powerful force that was making a genuine difference in the lives of millions of people.