Dominican Republic takes center stage as UN Tourism Summit unites Africa and the Americas

Punta Cana, DR.- The Dominican Republic’s leadership in global tourism has been reaffirmed as it hosts the UN Tourism Summit uniting Africa and the Americas for the first time in history. The high-profile event, held from Thursday through Saturday at the Paradisus Palma Real Golf & Spa Resort, is set to be a milestone in fostering an intercontinental alliance aimed at bolstering the wellness industry.

“This summit marks a pivotal moment for our country and the global tourism industry,” stated David Collado, the Dominican Minister of Tourism and President of UN Tourism for the Americas, during his opening speech, according to a press release sent to the media by the Ministry of Tourism (Mitur). “The presence of both continents here shows our commitment to advancing tourism as a cornerstone of economic development.”

The event, initiated by the Dominican Republic under the theme “Promoting South-South Cooperation through Investment in Education, Culture, Creative Industries, and Innovation,” has brought together prominent tourism ministers, academics, and experts to discuss sustainable practices, investment opportunities, and cultural exchanges.

“This is where the New World began, and now, a new era of tourism collaboration is born,” Collado continued. “Together, we are building a common agenda that will elevate tourism as a force for prosperity and unity across nations.”

Among the notable speakers was Auxillia C. Mnangagwa, First Lady of Zimbabwe and Patron of Tourism, who delivered a keynote address, followed by a high-level ministerial dialogue on “Building Opportunities between Africa and the Americas.” The discussions aim to pave the way for new growth avenues and enhance cooperation in the sector.

Other highlights of the summit include the adoption of the “Punta Cana Declaration,” a keynote by IATA Regional Vice President Peter Cerdá on “Bridging Continents: Strengthening Ties between Africa and the Americas,” and an engaging session by Ethiopian chef and UN Tourism Ambassador Yohanis Hailemariam titled “Cooking Connections: The Power of Gastronomy to Unite Continents.”

The opening day’s events will conclude with remarks by Dominican Vice President Raquel Peña, as the summit lays the groundwork for a unified approach to leveraging tourism as a tool for cultural and economic empowerment.