The 123rd UN Tourism Executive Council. Photo source: UN Tourism
The World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) announced the nomination of Shaikha Al Nowais as its next Secretary-General during its 123rd Executive Council session, held in Segovia, Spain.
Held from May 29 to 30, the milestone session marked the 50th anniversary of UN Tourism and reviewed progress across key priorities such as innovation, investment, and education. Upon confirmation by the UN Tourism General Assembly, Al Nowais will become the first woman to hold the position.
Greek MP and former Minister of Tourism Harry Theoharis, who was also a candidate for the post, issued the following statement:
Greek MP Harry Theoharis.
“I fully respect the decision of the Executive Council of the UN Tourism to elect Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais as the next Secretary-General. I extend to her my warmest congratulations and sincere wishes for every success in her new role, with the hope that the Organization will move forward decisively – toward a more effective, modern, and inclusive future.
Although I was not elected, I am proud of the journey we undertook. We conducted a campaign defined by integrity, consistency, and global reach – conducted with dignity and clear purpose.
My candidacy positioned Greece as a constructive voice in international dialogue, offering concrete proposals for a tourism sector that is resilient, sustainable, and fair. It reaffirmed our country’s institutional presence on the global stage.
If the principles that guided our vision – transparency, green development, and the empowerment of local communities—contribute in any way to shaping the Organization’s future course, it would be for me a deeply meaningful and lasting reward.
I wish to extend my deepest gratitude to my family, my dedicated team, the Minister of Tourism Ms. Olga Kefalogianni, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the private sector partners whose support helped bring this campaign to life. Αbove all, I thank Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis for his trust and invaluable support. Without their belief in this vision, this journey would never have begun.
This campaign was, for me, not only a political endeavour but a national one. Greece has gained international recognition and credibility – and that, regardless of the electoral outcome, is our most important achievement.
My involvement in the field of tourism will continue. I remain present, committed, and ready to contribute wherever I can be of service – with ideas, proposals, and action.
With renewed determination, I continue in my responsibilities as a Member of the Hellenic Parliament with New Democracy, fully dedicated to representing the needs of our citizens and fulfilling our collective mission.
One chapter closes. A new one begins.
We move forward – with knowledge, experience, and the firm belief that Greece deserves more.
Thank you.”
Follow GTP Headlines on Google News to keep up to date with all the latest on tourism and travel in Greece.
Source link
