Happy World Tourism Day to our entire sector...

Every 27 September, when we celebrate World Tourism Day, we emphasize the power of tourism to touch all segments of society. The reason we celebrate this day is to raise awareness, on a global scale, of the importance of tourism in society and of its social, political, financial and at the same time cultural added value. Right now, this message is more important than ever. On World Tourism Day 2020, the tourism and travel sector is leaving a deep mark in history with an unprecedented crisis.

The COVID-19 pandemic has, in an extraordinary manner, brought the entire world almost to a standstill. While our health is the most important element under threat, the economic and social life that sustains existence has taken a serious blow. The tourism sector, with its millions of jobs at risk, has been the most affected sector.

As we join forces to get back on its feet the tourism sector, which is struggling for life as an almost "intubated" sector, to borrow a term that has recently entered our lives, we must fulfill our responsibility to ensure that the benefits of tourism are understood and shared by everyone. This crisis has taught us the necessity of building a sustainable, inclusive and resilient tourism.

First of all, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the valued tourism workers who are fighting the greatest battle in this difficult struggle. Hoping for a world tourism that is able to act on conscientious principles, where ethical rules prevail in a world order in which human life is held at the highest level in every area, I wish all my colleagues a happy World Tourism Day on 27 September.

Respectfully,
Müberra ERESİN
President of TÜROB