The BRICS Tourism Ministers’ Meeting 2024 was a significant event held in Moscow on June 20-21, 2024. This meeting was part of the inaugural BRICS Tourism Forum, organized by the Ministry for Economic Development of the Russian Federation and the Government of Moscow. The forum aimed to enhance cooperation among BRICS countries in the tourism sector, fostering stronger ties and collaborative efforts.

Key Highlights of the Event

Opening Remarks

Maxim Reshetnikov, Russia’s Minister for Economic Development, opened the forum with a focus on achieving practical results. He emphasized the importance of consolidating a cooperation plan and regulations for the BRICS tourism working group. His remarks set the tone for a productive and collaborative event.

Participation

The forum saw participation from over 300 representatives, including members of the business community, heads of associations, and industry experts. Notably, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) also participated, led by Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council. This diverse participation underscored the global interest in strengthening tourism ties within the BRICS framework.

Sessions and Presentations

The first day of the forum featured negotiations and presentations of tour operator products and services. Moscow showcased its innovative “Russpass” service, a digital platform designed to enhance the tourist experience, and the updated “Discover Moscow” portal, which provides comprehensive information about the city’s attractions and services.

Plenary Session

The second day included a plenary session that focused on the prospects for international cooperation among BRICS countries. This session provided a platform for discussing strategic initiatives and exploring new opportunities for collaboration in the tourism sector.

Special Sessions

Several special sessions were held to delve into specific topics relevant to the tourism industry:

• Digitalization in Recreation and Hospitality: This session explored the impact of modern technologies on the tourism industry, highlighting how digital tools can enhance the tourist experience and streamline operations.
• Sustainable Tourism: Discussions in this session centered around ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors and their importance in promoting sustainable tourism practices. Participants shared insights on how to balance economic growth with environmental and social responsibility.

Tourism Cooperation Roadmap

One of the key outcomes of the forum was the signing of a tourism cooperation roadmap by BRICS members. This roadmap outlines a strategic plan for enhancing tourist exchanges and collaboration among BRICS countries. The potential for tourist exchanges between BRICS countries is expected to reach 20 million, reflecting the significant impact of this cooperation on the global tourism landscape.

India’s Participation

India played a crucial role in the forum, highlighting its commitment to enhancing collaboration within the BRICS framework for sustainable tourism development. India’s participation underscored the importance of multilateralism in achieving equitable development in the tourism sector.

The BRICS Tourism Ministers’ Meeting 2024 was a landmark event that underscored the importance of international cooperation in the tourism sector. By bringing together representatives from BRICS countries and beyond, the forum provided a platform for sharing best practices, exploring new opportunities, and fostering stronger ties among nations. The event’s focus on practical results, digitalization, and sustainable tourism reflects the evolving priorities of the global tourism industry and sets the stage for continued collaboration and growth.