BRICS Tourism Ministers Meeting 2021 July 13, virtual, hosted by India

The BRICS Tourism Ministers’ Meeting was held virtually on July 13, 2021, hosted by India as part of its BRICS chairmanship for that year.

Meeting Details

  • Date: July 13, 2021
  • Format: Virtual meeting
  • Host: India, which held the BRICS presidency for 2021
  • Chair: Shri G Kishan Reddy, Minister for Tourism, India

Objectives

The primary objectives of the meeting included:

  1. Assessing the Impact of COVID-19: Understanding how the pandemic affected tourism in BRICS countries and identifying common challenges.
  2. Promoting Sustainable Tourism: Discussing strategies for developing a resilient tourism sector that prioritizes sustainability and inclusivity.
  3. Enhancing Cooperation: Strengthening ties among BRICS nations to facilitate tourism recovery and growth.

Key Discussions and Outcomes

1. Acknowledgment of COVID-19 Impact

The ministers recognized that the tourism sector was among the hardest hit by the pandemic, with significant declines in international travel, revenue losses, and job cuts. They emphasized the need for a coordinated response to revive the sector.

2. Adoption of the Communiqué

The meeting culminated in the adoption of a Communiqué, which outlined the collective vision and commitments of BRICS nations towards tourism recovery. Key points included:

  • Resilience and Recovery: Emphasizing the need for a resilient tourism sector that can withstand future shocks.
  • Sustainability: Commitment to sustainable tourism practices that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
  • Inclusivity: Ensuring that tourism development benefits all segments of society, including marginalized communities.

3. BRICS Alliance for Green Tourism

A significant outcome of the meeting was the establishment of the BRICS Alliance for Green Tourism. This initiative aims to:

  • Mainstream Sustainability: Integrate sustainable practices into tourism policies and frameworks.
  • Promote Renewable Energy: Encourage the use of renewable energy sources in tourism operations.
  • Support Conservation Efforts: Protect natural and cultural heritage through responsible tourism practices.
  • Create Job Opportunities: Focus on generating employment, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
  • Facilitate Social Inclusion: Ensure that tourism development is inclusive and benefits local communities.
  • Address MSME Needs: Provide support to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the tourism sector, which are crucial for local economies.

4. Health, Safety, and Hygiene

The ministers highlighted the importance of health, safety, and hygiene protocols in restoring traveler confidence. They discussed the need for standardized measures across BRICS countries to ensure safe travel experiences.

5. Promoting Off-Beat Destinations

The meeting encouraged the promotion of lesser-known tourist destinations within BRICS countries to alleviate pressure on popular sites and distribute tourism benefits more evenly.

6. Intra-BRICS Cooperation

The ministers emphasized the importance of cooperation among BRICS nations through:

  • Information Sharing: Establishing platforms for sharing best practices and experiences in tourism recovery.
  • Exchange Programs: Facilitating cultural and educational exchanges to foster deeper connections among member countries.
  • Participation in Travel Fairs: Collaborating in international travel exhibitions to promote tourism opportunities within BRICS nations.

Implications for the Future

The BRICS Tourism Ministers’ Meeting in 2021 set a positive tone for the future of tourism in these countries. By focusing on sustainability, inclusivity, and cooperation, BRICS nations aim to build a more resilient tourism sector that can adapt to changing global dynamics. The establishment of the BRICS Alliance for Green Tourism is particularly noteworthy, as it reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship and responsible tourism practices.

In summary, the BRICS Tourism Ministers’ Meeting on July 13, 2021, was a critical step toward revitalizing the tourism sector in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. By fostering collaboration and promoting sustainable practices, the BRICS nations are positioning themselves to not only recover from the pandemic’s impacts but also to lead in the development of a more sustainable and inclusive global tourism landscape.

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