The Caribbean destination became UNWTO’s newest Member State and eighth in the Caribbean region when its application was approved by the 24th Session of the General Assembly in December 2021. The Government appointed Dr. Dario Item, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Spain as its Permanent Representative to the UNWTO as well as its Head of Permanent Mission to the Organization.

Secretary-General Pololikashvili warmly welcomed Dr Item, receiving his credentials at the UNWTO headquarters in Madrid. Given the importance of tourism to the islands, the restart of tourism will bring economic growth and social opportunities. In 2020, Antigua and Barbuda welcomed 125,000 international arrivals and tourism receipts totalled US$349 million.

Now as a Member State, UNWTO and the Government of Antigua and Barbuda will work together to enhance the sector's importance as a pillar of sustainable development, with innovation and tourism education shared priorities.

About The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is the United Nations specialized agency fostering tourism as a vehicle for equal, inclusive and sustainable development. Working with its Member States, international organizations and the private sector, UNWTO promotes safe and seamless travel for all. UNWTO also works to make tourism the foundation of trust and international cooperation and a central pillar of recovery. As part of the wider UN system, UNWTO is at the forefront of global efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including through its ability to create decent jobs, promote equality and preserve natural and cultural heritage.

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