The Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Zurab Pololikashvili, has concluded a landmark visit to China, significantly enhancing strategic partnerships and sustainable tourism initiatives. The high-level engagements across Shanghai, Beijing, and Hainan Province reflect a shared commitment toward the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and China’s Global Development Initiative (GDI).

Pololikashvili emphasized the critical role China plays in global tourism, stating, “China is undeniably a global tourism leader, both as an important source market and a premier destination. Its commitment to digital innovation and sustainable development sets an example for tourism sectors worldwide.”

Supporting the Global Development Initiative (GDI)

During official meetings, the Secretary-General reiterated UNWTO’s robust support for China’s GDI, championed by President Xi Jinping. As outlined by China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (fmprc.gov.cn), the GDI underscores international cooperation, inclusive growth, and sustainable development—principles aligning closely with UNWTO’s mission.

At a pivotal meeting with the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA.gov.cn), Pololikashvili explored opportunities for deeper collaboration on Chinese-funded global projects. These initiatives target sustainable tourism, capacity building, and regional economic cooperation, benefiting UNWTO member states worldwide.

Pololikashvili highlighted President Xi’s core message—“solidarity is strength, division leads nowhere”—underscoring the importance of global unity and cooperative frameworks as essential for achieving the UN’s SDGs.

Strategic Engagements in Shanghai

In Shanghai, Pololikashvili engaged senior officials, including Chen Jining, Member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of China and Secretary of Shanghai Municipal Committee. Discussions centered around leveraging digital transformation, sustainable tourism growth, and attracting strategic investment into the region, as part of China’s broader economic strategy detailed by the Shanghai Municipal Government (english.shanghai.gov.cn).

These high-level exchanges reinforce Shanghai’s prominence as a global business and tourism hub, promoting innovative tourism solutions in line with UNWTO’s global vision.

Strengthening Collaboration with Trip.com Group

Pololikashvili also enhanced ties with China’s private sector through strategic discussions at Trip.com Group headquarters. These talks focused on integrating advanced digital technologies, sustainable practices, and innovations in travel and tourism, aligning with UNWTO’s commitment to fostering digital transformation across the global tourism industry.

Enhancing Cooperation with Hainan Province

In Hainan Province, renowned for its thriving tourism sector, the Secretary-General held significant discussions with the Governor and senior officials from the Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism (hainan.gov.cn). They emphasized deepening partnerships between UNWTO and China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism to further regional tourism development and sustainability.

Additionally, Pololikashvili actively participated in the Bo’ao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2025 (boaoforum.org), highlighting tourism’s vital role in fostering regional economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, and sustainable development across Asia-Pacific.

Ongoing Partnership with GTEF

Lastly, in meetings with Pansy Ho, Vice Chairman and Secretary-General of the Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF), Pololikashvili discussed preparations for the 2025 forum. The dialogue reaffirmed tourism’s critical function as a driver of global economic cooperation, supported by China’s ongoing commitment to sustainable economic growth.

This high-profile visit marks a significant milestone for UNWTO-China relations, reinforcing shared objectives toward sustainable, inclusive tourism that drives global economic and cultural cooperation.

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