WTTC assesses effects of terror attacks on world tourism

MEMBERS of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) have issued a letter to U.S. leaders expressing their collective shock, outrage and sadness at the recent terrorist attacks and are assessing the economic impact on the travel and tourism industry. In a statement the WTTC said its members stood ready to assist the U.S. and governments worldwide in their efforts to restore full confidence to the travelling public, and to help increase safety and security around the world. "Travel and tourism needs peace more than any other sector," commented WTTC President Jean-Claude Baumgarten. "Yet it can also help bring about peace by fostering understanding amongst those who travel and the communities that welcome them. For the sake of peace and worldwide prosperity, WTTC urges industry and government to work together to restore confidence in travel and tourism," he added. According to WTTC research, travel and tourism is responsible for $4,495 trillion in global activity. WTTC is the global business leaders' forum for travel and tourism. Its 100 members are chief executives from all sectors of the industry and its central goal is to work with governments to realise the full economic and social potential of travel and tourism through public/private sector cooperation. (Miguel de Sousa)