Myanmar to Rejoin UNWTO

The President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, U Thein Sein, has confirmed that the country will initiate the process of restoring its membership of UNWTO.

Myanmar is one of the most mystical, beautiful and enchanting countries in Asia Pacific. It is also unique in the it can offer a relatively untouched, authentic experience that few destinations around the world can still truly deliver.

“Tourism is a major sector of the economy not only for Myanmar but also for all countries around the world. It brings benefits to a country, boosts its economy and create employment opportunities,” said President Sein. “We therefore request that our membership of UNWTO be restored so that we can obtain the relevant knowledge to further promote and develop our tourism sector.”

Meeting with President Sein, UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai assured him that UNWTO stood ready to support Myanmar in taking full advantage of its “tremendous tourism potential”.

“Myanmar is a country abundant in natural and cultural resources, the foundation of any tourism sector,” said Mr. Rifai. “Following talks with the Minister of Hotels, Tourism and Sport, U Tint San, UNWTO will lend its expertise in a number of areas, ranging from capacity-building to sustainable tourism practices and travel facilitation, to responsibly develop tourism for the benefit of all.”

During his visit, Mr. Rifai, presented President Sein with an Open Letter from UNWTO and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) on the importance of tourism to global growth and development. Accepting the Letter, President Sein stated that “tourism should be considered a ‘smokeless industry’ ” and one that “boosts growth, creates job opportunities, conserves the environment and helps to maintain traditional arts and crafts.”

David Scowsill, President & CEO, WTTC said, “I am pleased that the significance of the Travel & Tourism industry is increasingly being recognised by Myanmar. With its rich eco-diversity, natural and cultural heritage together with a commitment to responsible tourism, Myanmar is increasingly harnessing its Travel & Tourism potential. In 2011, the industry contributed MMK1435.4bn to the GDP of the economy and contributed 726,500 jobs. By joining this global movement of Heads of State and Government through this signing of the Open Letter, the President demonstrates his commitment to support the growth and development of its Travel & Tourism industry.”

According to UNWTO’s long-term forecast, Tourism Towards 2030, international tourist arrivals to Asia and the Pacific will increase from 204 million in 2010 to 535 million in 2030. South Asia will be the fastest growing sub-region in the world, growing 6% a year.

“Asia and the Pacific is the future powerhouse of global tourism and Myanmar is in a strategic position to receive a significant share of these arrivals,” said Mr. Rifai.

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