WTTC announces final line-up for 24th Global Summit in Perth

WTTC announces final line-up for 24th Global Summit in Perth
Edited by Travel Weekly


The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) announced the line-up for its 24th Global Summit in Perth, from 8-10 October 2024, a first for the Oceania region.

Set to take the stage during the event are the 68th US Secretary of State John Kerry and conservationist and TV personality Robert Irwin. During a fireside chat with Julia Simpson, WTTC president and CEO, Secretary Kerry will share insights in navigating the international political landscape, forging strong alliances, and facilitating international cooperation for a more resilient and sustainable future.

Robert Irwin, son of the legendary Steve Irwin, will share unforgettable stories from his adventures in the wild, and how travel and tourism plays a vital role in creating a future where nature is enjoyed while being protected and celebrated.

Under the theme “Ancient Land: New Perspectives”, this year’s Global Summit focuses on Australia’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders with an emphasis on its innovation and sustainable growth.

They also announced that alongside Julia Simpson and WTTC chair Greg O’Hara, WA Premier Roger Cook will open the Global Summit on 8 October.

Notable speakers include: Di Bain, chair, Tourism Western Australia; Audrey Hendley, president, American Express Travel; Matt Goldberg, president & group CEO, Tripadvisor; Jane Sun, group CEO, Trip.com; Frank Marini, president & CEO, Railbookers Group; Jason Waters, CEO, Perth Airport; Kelly Craighead, president & CEO, CLIA; Francis Gatare, CEO, Rwanda Development Board; Christie Travers-Smith, head of retail and travel EMEA Partnerships, Google, and many other business leaders from around the world.

“We are delighted to have such influential speakers confirmed for our Global Summit in the beautiful city of Perth,” WTTC president and CEO, Julia Simpson, said.

“This is our first ever major event in the Oceania region, and it will bring together many of the world’s most powerful leaders in our sector to discuss and secure its long-term future, which is critical to economies and jobs around the world.”

Official government delegations from around the world and representing more than 25 countries will be in attendance, with delegations from several G20 economies, including Argentina, Australia, China, Mexico, South Africa and the US.

Delegations from other major economies include Nigeria, Peru, Philippines, Thailand, and the UAE, will also be participating, with the Deputy Prime Ministers of the Bahamas and Fiji also in attendance.

A new addition to WTTC’s Global Summit, the Investors’ Nest will see university students from around the world pitch their ideas for sustainable tourism to Travel & Tourism investors in a Shark Tank-style format. The winner will be announced during at the end of the Global Summit.

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