Page 36 - MOET ENGLISH PR REPORT - JULY 2025

Press Release

Shaikha Al Nowais meets with Chinese Ambassador to strengthen
tourism collaboration and global partnerships for resilient tourism

Meeting explores future collaboration on cultural and tourism initiatives to foster
knowledge exchange and economic growth

Abu Dhabi, 23 July 2025 - Her Excellency Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais, Secretary-General elect

of UN Tourism for the 2026–2029 term, met with His Excellency Zhang Yiming, Ambassador of
the People’s Republic of China to the UAE, in Abu Dhabi. The meeting focused on advancing
collaboration in the tourism sector and explored opportunities to forge partnerships that foster
cultural and tourism initiatives supporting knowledge exchange and economic development in
tourism and related sectors.

Her Excellency Shaikha Al Nowais reaffirmed her commitment to working with global partners,
particularly China, to develop strategic projects in sustainable and cultural tourism. She noted that
China’s dynamic tourism industry is a key driver of tourism and cultural exchange, as well as the
growth of global tourism markets.

H.E. said: “We value China’s continuing efforts to drive tourism and promote partnerships in this
field. We look forward to expanding collaboration in the areas of education, training, and tourism
innovation through launching training programmes globally to elevate the preparedness of the
tourism workforce, enrich cultural tourism experiences, and support rural community development
through sustainable tourism.”

During the meeting, both sides discussed several priority areas of mutual interest, including
initiatives to empower local communities and opportunities to leverage China’s expertise and
resources. They also explored ways to enhance tourism mobility across countries and regions
through bilateral and multilateral collaboration, aligned with the United Nations’ global tourism
frameworks.

Both parties affirmed the importance of aligning international efforts to strengthen tourism’s role
as a bridge between people and cultures, and as a catalyst for sustainable development and youth
empowerment. They emphasized the need for renewed policies that embrace diversity, foster
innovation, and ensure the sustainable use of resources.

-Ends-

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