The Global Tourism Forum 2025 Annual Meeting brought together ministers, tourism executives, policymakers, and global leaders to discuss how the tourism industry can adapt to the shifting global landscape. Over two days of panels and networking sessions, participants explored the intersection of innovation, investment, sustainability, and inclusive growth as key drivers of the sector’s future.
The agenda featured topics such as AI and tourism transformation, the evolution of aviation and smart destinations, women’s leadership in tourism, and investment in sustainable development, among others.
Representing GSTC was Dr. Ioannis Pappas, GSTC Program Director of the Mediterranean Region and European Climate Pact Ambassador, who engaged in meaningful dialogue with peers, highlighting the importance of using the GSTC Standards to guide destinations, hotels, and tour operators toward continuous improvement in their sustainability journey. He also exchanged insights on how sustainable tourism can serve as a catalyst for resilience, innovation, and long-term competitiveness in the face of global challenges.
“Participating in global tourism events like the GTF Annual Meeting is essential to exchange knowledge, strengthen partnerships, and ensure that sustainability remains at the core of tourism’s global agenda,” said Dr. Pappas.
[From left to right, Bulut Bagci, President of the World Tourism Forum, and Dr. Ioannis Pappas, GSTC Program Director of the Mediterranean Region]
