Colombian President Gustavo Petro’s absence at the 44th Vitrina Turística de ANATO, the key tourism fair, highlights concerns over leadership engagement. The event, attended by industry experts, emphasized the importance of addressing security issues across the country. With significant attendance and high-profile speakers, ANATO aims to bolster confidence in Colombia’s tourism potential amidst challenges.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro missed the opening of the 44th Vitrina Turística de ANATO, the nation’s key travel and tourism fair, opting to host a later reception instead. This decision illustrates his detachment from public engagements at a critical juncture for Colombia’s tourism, vital for the economy. His absence received muted reactions, contrasting with the warm welcomes previously afforded to his predecessors like Iván Duque, who supported the industry through the pandemic.
Despite security and government frustrations, the fair attracted significant attendance from industry experts and the public. Regions facing security issues, such as Norte de Santander and Cauca, showcased their cultural heritage and local crafts. Discussions at the event heavily revolved around security as attendees emphasized the need to address it for tourism’s growth.
The Vitrina Turística de ANATO unites various stakeholders in Colombia’s tourism sector including travel agencies and airlines. High-profile attendees included Minister Luis Carlos Reyes and Bogotá’s Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán, underlining the fair’s importance. Mayor Galán pointed to Bogotá’s infrastructure improvements and growing culinary scene as vital for the city’s future.
Santa Marta Mayor Carlos Pinedo commemorated his city’s heritage and urged expanding tourism alongside commercial alliances as they prepare for a milestone anniversary. Marcelo Freixo of Embratur spoke on enhancing tourism collaboration between Brazil and Colombia, advocating for tourism as a sustainable development model promoting democracy and environmental responsibility.
Minister Luis Carlos Reyes reiterated government commitments to showcase Colombia’s diverse tourism offerings, aiming for 20 million international visitors annually. He highlighted the fair’s role in generating business contacts, projecting over 220,000 interactions worth approximately US$128 million.
With over 1,500 exhibitors, the fair emphasizes tourism in post-conflict areas, encouraging visits to regions previously labeled as unsafe. During the fair, mayors expressed the necessity for collaboration with security authorities to ensure public safety as a priority.
As Colombia positions its tourism sector as central to its economic strategy, ANATO exemplifies the country’s resilience. Addressing security concerns remains essential to uphold the nation’s reputation as a welcoming destination while fostering economic growth.
The 44th Vitrina Turística de ANATO highlights the critical intersection of tourism and security in Colombia. President Petro’s absence at the opening illustrated a troubling trend in leadership engagement. The event showcased vibrant participation from various regions, amidst ongoing security concerns, reaffirming the necessity for collaboration between government and tourism stakeholders to ensure a sustainable and secure future for Colombia’s tourism sector.
Original Source: thecitypaperbogota.com
