September the 27th is observed each year as World Tourism Day, and it is an opportunity to highlight the travel industry's social, economic, political, and cultural significance and value.
This year, World Tourism Day holds even more significance, as the theme identified by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation is 'Tourism for Inclusive Growth.'
Over the past two years, the tourism industry worldwide has been seriously affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has caused millions of people to lose their jobs, businesses and livelihoods.
But as countries around the world begin reducing restrictions and opening up to tourism once more, the theme prompts us to be positive; to be mindful of the importance of inclusive recovery; and to look beyond the tourism statistics and acknowledge that every number and data point, represents a person.
The Pact Administration is doing all that we can to ensure that our tourism workers and businesses will not become the forgotten casualties of this deadly disease, but rather, are included as our partners in the redevelopment of a renewed and revitalised Cayman Islands tourism industry.
As your government, we recognise the vital role that tourism plays in creating jobs; attracting foreign investments; driving the development of critical infrastructure, and promoting trade across multiple sectors in our economy.
We remain committed to supporting our tourism sector, and in particular all of the men and women who have worked tirelessly to make the Cayman Islands one of the best vacation destinations in the world.
As Minister for Tourism, I am confident that by inclusively working together the strength of our tourism industry will be restored and over time will rebound even stronger than before. I also look forward to once again successfully welcoming visitors to our shores, to see the natural beauty of our Islands and experience our unique culture and heritage.
May God bless you and continue to bless the Cayman Islands.