UN Tourism Secretary-General Concludes Landmark Visit to China, Strengthening Global Tourism Cooperation.

In a significant stride toward global tourism development, UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili has concluded a high-profile visit to China, cementing a deepened collaboration between UN Tourism and one of the world’s leading tourism powers. The landmark visit spotlighted the joint commitment of both parties to sustainable tourism, digital innovation, and inclusive global development.

Championing a Shared Vision for Sustainable Tourism

“China stands as one of the world’s true tourism leaders,” Secretary-General Pololikashvili stated. “At both the public and private level, China is leading from the front in the digital transformation of the sector while also supporting it to become a pillar of international sustainable development.”

His visit served as a powerful affirmation of UN Tourism’s recognition of China’s role—not just as a travel destination or a growing outbound market, but as a visionary driver of tourism-led sustainable growth. Meetings with senior Chinese government officials and leaders in the private sector emphasized the nation’s leadership in aligning tourism with global sustainability goals.

Supporting the Global Development Initiative

A central theme of the Secretary-General’s engagements was UN Tourism’s strong support for China’s Global Development Initiative (GDI) and the broader vision of a Community with a Shared Future for Mankind, championed by President Xi Jinping. This vision aligns closely with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and the visit reinforced the need for unity in advancing global progress.

Discussions with the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) explored opportunities for collaboration on Chinese-funded projects aimed at supporting tourism-related development in UN Tourism Member States. Emphasizing innovation, inclusivity, and strategic partnerships, the meetings highlighted the shared belief that “solidarity is strength, but division leads nowhere.”

Strengthening Strategic Partnerships in Shanghai and Hainan

The visit included high-level talks in Shanghai with Chen Jining, Member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Secretary of the Shanghai Municipal Committee. Discussions focused on the future of regional tourism development, digital transformation, and investment opportunities. These conversations laid a solid groundwork for strengthened cooperation between UN Tourism and local authorities.

In Hainan Province, the Secretary-General met with the Governor, Vice Governor, and senior officials from the Hainan Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism. The delegation’s presence at the Bo’ao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2025 further showcased tourism’s pivotal role in regional economic integration and sustainable development.

Private Sector Collaboration and Innovation

The Secretary-General also deepened ties with China’s vibrant private sector. A visit to Trip.com Group headquarters symbolized a forward-looking alliance, focusing on the role of digital innovation, smart tourism technologies, and sustainable travel practices. The partnership seeks to harness the potential of technology to improve travel experiences and drive responsible tourism globally.

A key moment of the trip was a strategic dialogue with Pansy Ho, Vice Chairman and Secretary-General of the Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF) and a UN Tourism Ambassador. Preparations for the upcoming GTEF 2025 were a focal point, with both sides reaffirming tourism’s critical role in promoting economic cooperation and global dialogue.

A Defining Chapter in Global Tourism Cooperation

Secretary-General Pololikashvili’s visit to China represents a milestone in international tourism diplomacy. It signals not only the strengthening of UN Tourism’s partnership with China but also the growing momentum behind tourism as a force for inclusive growth, technological advancement, and sustainable development across the world.

As global travel rebounds, the alignment between UN Tourism and China sets a powerful precedent for how nations can work together to shape a better, more connected future—one traveler at a time.