KwaZulu-Natal welcomes delegates to G20 Tourism Working Group meeting
KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli has expressed pride in the province's role in shaping international tourism discourse, as the second G20 Tourism Working Group (TWG) meeting kicked off in Durban.
Welcoming the international delegates attending the second G20 Tourism Working Group meeting on Sunday, Ntuli highlighted KwaZulu-Natal's diverse offerings, from cultural heritage and natural beauty to world class hospitality, and innovation, as pillars of its appeal for global tourism partnerships and investment.
'This is more than a meeting. It is a statement that KwaZulu-Natal is ready to lead, connect, and contribute on the global stage. We are honoured to host the world's tourism leaders and share our vision for a sustainable tourism economy that creates jobs, drives growth, and uplifts communities,' Ntuli said.
The Second G20 Tourism Working Group (TWG) meeting is taking place at the Coastlands Hotel, from 11 to 13 May.
The high-level gathering brings together policymakers, tourism experts, and industry leaders from G20 member countries, to discuss collaborative strategies for inclusive and sustainable tourism development.
The meeting also forms part of South Africa's broader G20 chairship programme, positioning both the country and the province as influential players in shaping the future of global tourism.
Ntuli reaffirmed the province's commitment to supporting national development priorities and emphasised the importance of using international platforms to boost local economic development.
Upon arrival, delegates were welcomed with the warm spirit of ubuntu and a vibrant showcase of KwaZulu-Natal's rich cultural diversity y that defines the region.
The Durban meeting follows the first virtual TWG engagement held in March 2025, where the G20 member states agreed on four strategic priorities that will inform the G20 action plan on tourism development.
These include a people-centred artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation to enhance travel and tourism start-ups and SMMEs [Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises]; enhancing tourism financing and investment to enhance equality and promote sustainable development; strengthening air connectivity for seamless travel; and building an enhanced resilience for inclusive, sustainable tourism development.
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