Under the theme “Timeless Wisdom for a Sustainable Future,” the PATA Annual Summit 2025 hosted by the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) and supported by Turkish Airlines, focused on how cultural heritage and long-standing sustainable practices can contribute to shaping the future of tourism. Held in Istanbul, Türkiye, from April 21st to 23rd, the event brought together professionals from across the tourism sector to exchange ideas, share experiences, and explore opportunities for building a more sustainable and inclusive industry.
The three-day programme of the PATA Annual Summit 2025 included a variety of key components designed to foster learning, collaboration, and action across the tourism sector. The Main Conference featured two days of plenary and breakout sessions, while the Destination Experience offered a half-day technical tour programme showcasing local insights. A half-day Youth Symposium was also part of the program, providing a dedicated forum for young professionals to engage in meaningful dialogue as well.
GSTC CEO, Randy Durband, moderated the panel ‘’Government Session: Building a Sustainable Future’’, with panelists such as Onur Gözet, Deputy Director General for Promotion, Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye; Florian Sengstschmid, CEO, Azerbaijan Tourism Board; Deepak Raj Joshi, CEO, Nepal Tourism Board; Sharlene Batin, Assistant Secretary, Department of Tourism, Philippines; and Alhasan Aldabbagh, President of APAC Markets, Saudi Tourism Authority. Additionally, Mr. Durband also facilitated the ‘’Education & Industry Roundtable’’ on the 21st.
The session explored key topics such as decarbonization strategies, the adoption of responsible practices, and the role of global sustainability standards and certifications in driving impactful transformation across the sector. Panelists included Paloma Zapata, CEO of Sustainable Travel International; Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB); and Prof. Dr. Hasan Ali Karasar, Rector of Kapadokya University, who shared insights on sustainability, corporate responsibility, and the evolving role of tourism stakeholders.
“It was a double pleasure joining the PATA Summit by interacting once again with GSTC’s partners at PATA and its community, plus our partners TGA and the Türkiye Ministry of Tourism. An added pleasure was the honor to moderate the Government Session and to facilitate meaningful conversations with distinguished leaders who are shaping the future of tourism. Congratulations to PATA and Turkish tourism leadership for an excellent event.” Said Randy Durband, GSTC CEO.
On behalf of Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA), a member of GSTC, the Acting General Manager Sinan Seha Türkseven was also present at the event and spoke after the Opening Ceremony in the session “PATA Thought Leaders Session: Timeless Wisdom for a Sustainable Future” where Noor Ahmad Hamid CEO of PATA was the facilitator.
“Hosting the PATA Annual Summit in Istanbul was not only an honor, but a clear reflection of Türkiye’s rising leadership in shaping the future of sustainable tourism. Türkiye’s National Sustainable Tourism Program, which is acknowledged by GSTC, is based on a holistic framework developed in collaboration with industry stakeholders and international institutions. It applies to all accommodation facilities across all 81 provinces of Türkiye, from small guesthouses to large hotels. While the TGA oversees promotion and implementation processes, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism provides the legal and regulatory framework.”
In addition, Dr. Elif Balcı Fisunoğlu (Ph.D.), Vice General Manager of TGA and Board Member of GSTC, expressed her gratitude for hosting the PATA Annual Summit. She highlighted that hosting one of the most prestigious tourism events in the Asia-Pacific region is a privilege and a strategic opportunity for Türkiye to showcase the country’s sustainable tourism policies on a global stage.
