DPM COOPER HEADS BAHAMAS DELEGATION TO WTTC GLOBAL SUMMIT

**Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper, Minister of Tourism, Investments and Aviation**.

NASSAU, Bahamas — The Hon. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, is heading The Bahamas’ delegation that is participating in the 22nd World Travel & Tourism Council Global Summit being held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from November 28 to December 1, 2022.

The World Travel & Tourism Council Global Summit is the “most influential Travel & Tourism event on the calendar, and this year, global government and travel industry leaders will gather under the theme “Travel for a Better Future” to align efforts to support the “sector’s recovery and move beyond to a safer, more resilient, inclusive and sustainable future,” DPM Cooper said.

“As we continue to learn from the challenges, changes and opportunities brought about in the tourism sector following the Covid-19 pandemic, never has there been a more important time for us to share knowledge, experience and ideas on a global level,” Mr. Cooper said. “I am looking forward to connecting with my fellow Ministers and delegates for what promises to be a very insightful summit, as well as sharing our vision and the approach that The Bahamas is taking to sustainable tourism for the future of our people and our beautiful islands.”

DPM Cooper will be speaking on a panel moderated by Eleni Giokos, Anchor and Correspondent, CNN, focusing on the digitisation of the tourism industry. The panel will highlight the changes in spending habits accelerated during the pandemic and how an increasing number of people are leading a “cashless” life. From the use of new currencies and payment models to redesigned destinations and entry processes, the panelists will debate the future of technology-enabled travel and the impact of new currencies and cashless societies.

In line with the WTTC mission, this year’s Summit will focus on maximising the inclusive and sustainable growth potential of the Travel & Tourism sector by partnering with governments, destinations, communities and other stakeholders to drive economic development, create jobs, reduce poverty and foster peace, security and understanding around the world.

DPM Cooper is accompanied by Mrs. Cecillia Cooper; Mrs. Latia Duncombe, Acting Director General of Tourism; Mr. Anthony Stuart, Executive Director, UK, Europe and Mid-East; Mr. Andy Burrows, Bahamas Investment Authority; Mr. Ivan Thompson, Deputy Head of Protocol; and Inspector Kevin Duncombe.

The 22nd World Travel & Tourism Council Global Summit is being held in partnership with Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia.

According to a Saudi Arabia Ministry of Tourism press release, “WTTC’s annual Global Summit hosts industry leaders from the public and private sectors to discuss the most pressing issues in Travel & Tourism in this new era of travel. This Summit will provide the opportunity to define and refine key strategic initiatives to address the social, environmental, and economic challenges our sector faces. By enhancing its resilience and prioritizing sustainable and inclusive growth, Travel & Tourism can continue to create shared prosperity for the global community.

“Confirmed speakers include: