Valletta:Tourism Minister Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi engaged in strategic discussions with international leaders and executives from the tourism, travel, hospitality, and investment sectors during the 26th World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Global Summit, held in Valletta, Malta, from October 7 to 9.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the minister's agenda included a meeting with Malta's Tourism Minister, Dr. Jo Etienne Abela. They discussed enhancing tourism cooperation, sharing expertise in destination development, diversifying tourism offerings, and improving services. Minister Al Sairafi emphasized Bahrain's dedication to expanding international partnerships and attracting quality investments to boost tourism and economic growth.
The minister also met with Nick Adams, the US Special Presidential Envoy for Global Tourism and Values, to explore collaboration in tourism development and international market promotion. Their discussions highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships and the significance of major international events in boosting travel and tourism investments. The meeting underscored the historical ties between Bahrain and the United States.
Further discussions with representatives of four prominent international groups explored partnership opportunities in tourism, retail, hospitality, and travel. The minister's meeting with Pansy Ho of Shun Tak Holdings Limited centered on cooperation in destination development and integrated tourism projects. Discussions with Jane Jie Sun, CEO of Trip.com Group, focused on digital tourism marketing and enhancing Bahrain's global presence.
Additionally, the minister met Désirée Bollier from Value Retail to discuss the development of shopping tourism experiences. Her conversation with Elie Maalouf, CEO of IHG Hotels and Resorts, which operates in over 100 countries, revolved around opportunities for hotel expansion and investment.