London:Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Minister Khadak Raj Paudel emphasized the importance of government support and institutional cooperation to mitigate the impacts of climate change on the tourism sector. He delivered this message at the 20th Ministerial Summit organized by the World Travel and Tourism Council and the United Nations World Tourism Organization in London.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Minister Paudel highlighted the critical need for addressing and reducing the risks that climate change poses, particularly to the tourism industry. He stressed the importance of empowering communities to achieve sustainable and resilient tourism development.
Minister Paudel used the Bhotekoshi flood as an example to illustrate the human losses and damage to tourism infrastructure caused by climate change. He expressed concerns about the increasing challenges climate change presents to tourist destinations, infrastructure, and the livelihoods of local communities.
To safeguard the tourism sector from disasters and climate-related risks, Minister Paudel advocated for the development of an effective crisis management system. This system should involve the participation of communities, government, and robust institutions. He stated that focusing on community-centered disaster management and tourism development, along with enhancing government support and institutional capacity, is essential for a sustainable and progressive tourism sector.
The summit, themed ‘Enhancing the Growth Potential of the Tourism Sector in a Changing Global Environment,’ included participation from tourism ministers and representatives from various countries and sectors. Attendees shared experiences and insights on public-private collaboration, sustainable tourism development, and strategies to bolster the tourism sector’s resilience amidst global uncertainties and evolving situations.