TravTalk India Online Magazine
Government ministers and global CEOs unite in Rome to tackle competitiveness, sustainability, and seamless travel.
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) convened its landmark Global Leaders’ Dialogue during the 25th WTTC Global Summit in Rome, bringing together government ministers and global CEOs to tackle some of the sector’s most pressing challenges.
The Dialogue opened with remarks from WTTC Interim CEO Gloria Guevara and the Italian Minister of Tourism, Daniela Santanchè, who underscored the importance of stronger public–private partnerships to safeguard the future of Travel & Tourism. A roundtable format set the stage for candid exchanges between public and private leaders, allowing them to share priorities, concerns, and solutions.
Europe’s lessons for the world
The first session spotlighted Europe’s enduring position as the world’s most visited region, focusing on how its blend of cultural heritage, strong infrastructure, and sustainability initiatives can inspire global best practice.
According to WTTC’s latest Economic Impact Report, Europe’s Travel & Tourism sector is expected to set new records in 2025, contributing €2.6 trillion to the continent’s GDP and supporting 41.3 million jobs. Leaders explored strategies to differentiate Europe amid rising global competition, balance innovation with authenticity, and learn from navigating complex governance frameworks.
Speakers pointed to pioneering sustainability efforts, new destination management approaches, and product development as vital to sustaining Europe’s edge in an increasingly crowded marketplace.
Towards seamless travel
The second session shifted the focus to cross-border travel, examining how to remove barriers and create smoother journeys worldwide. Leaders discussed the role of visa policies, border management, and biometric systems in shaping visitor flows, alongside tailored solutions for young travellers and those with accessibility needs.
Examples of streamlined visitor processes in emerging destinations were highlighted as models for growth. Calls grew for greater collaboration between governments and industry on digital solutions including e-visas, biometric identification, and integrated payment systems to deliver a more connected and frictionless travel experience.
Driving collective action
Both sessions underscored the importance of mutual support between governments and businesses to ensure Travel & Tourism remains a global driver of growth, cultural exchange, and connectivity.
WTTC Interim CEO Gloria Guevara said, “Today’s Dialogue underlined the incredible value of bringing governments and industry together at the same table. From Europe’s lessons on sustainability and competitiveness, to global solutions for seamless travel, it’s clear that through partnership, we unlock the sector’s full potential.”
The Global Leaders’ Dialogue continues to be a cornerstone of the WTTC Global Summit, offering an unrivalled forum for shaping the future of Travel & Tourism through open, action-oriented discussion.
