Latest news with #IMTA
The Sun
7 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy Enhances the Allure of Amazing Guizhou in Jakarta
JAKARTA, INDONESIA - Media OutReach Newswire – 6 August 2025 – Guizhou, a province renowned not only for the majestic Huangguoshu Waterfall and the mystical Mount Fanjing, is now more accessible than ever thanks to China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy. This initiative offers greater convenience for international travelers seeking to explore the province's rich natural beauty, vibrant ethnic culture, and technological innovation. To further promote this policy and Guizhou's tourism appeal, the '240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Promotion and Exchange Conference' was held in Jakarta, Indonesia, on the afternoon of August 4. Hosted by the Guizhou Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, the event highlighted Guizhou's diverse attractions, from shimmering Miao silverwork and the soulful Grand Songs of the Dong people to breathtaking mountain landscapes and a booming big data industry. Ms. Wang Lin, Director of the Department's Promotion and Exchange Division, gave a detailed briefing on the 240-hour visa-free transit policy, including its scope of application and compatible multi-destination travel products. She introduced Guizhou's rich tourism resources, including natural wonders, architectural marvels, ethnic heritage, summer retreats, and outdoor sports. 'This exchange aims to help more Indonesian tourism professionals understand Guizhou,' she said. 'The visa-free transit policy is a strong catalyst for encouraging Indonesian travelers to visit. As international travel becomes more convenient with enhanced flight connectivity and smoother mobile payment experiences, tourism cooperation between Guizhou and Indonesia will deepen.' Mr. Anton Surmali, Vice President of the Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA), expressed appreciation for the visa policy, noting its significance in facilitating travel between the two regions. 'I've read about Guizhou's stunning landscapes and unique culture in the media,' he said. 'I look forward to visiting personally and believe this policy will attract more Indonesian tourists to the province.' Ms. Wen Weiya, Director of the International Mountain Tourism Development Center of Guizhou, introduced the evolution of international mountain tourism, the structure and scale of the International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA), and its development achievements. She emphasized that IMTA is committed to working with global tourism stakeholders in a spirit of equality, inclusivity, and collaboration to jointly build and share the outcomes of high-quality mountain tourism development. She warmly invited Indonesian businesses to join the alliance and participate in the upcoming International Mountain Tourism and Outdoor Sports Conference in Guizhou this November. Mr. Wirawan Lesmana, Director of Ayo Wisata Tour, highlighted the policy's importance in encouraging Indonesian travelers to pursue outbound tourism. 'Guizhou's rich tourism resources, combined with the visa-free advantage, offer great opportunities for collaborative product design and joint marketing to achieve mutual benefits,' he remarked. During the event, representatives from tourism associations and travel agencies in both Guizhou and Indonesia engaged in active dialogue and idea exchange. Indonesian agencies inquired in detail about the scope of the visa-free policy and suggested leveraging social media and short video platforms to boost Guizhou's visibility in the Indonesian market. They recommended creating customized travel packages tailored to Indonesian preferences to attract more tourists to Guizhou. Looking ahead, Guizhou will continue to strengthen cooperation with Indonesia's tourism industry. By leveraging the 240-hour visa-free transit policy and working closely with airlines, Guizhou aims to launch more high-quality, multi-destination travel products. These efforts will ensure that more Indonesian tourists include Guizhou in their travel itineraries, further establishing Amazing Guizhou as a world-class tourist destination.
Arabian Post
7 days ago
- Business
- Arabian Post
240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy Enhances the Allure of Amazing Guizhou in Jakarta
240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Policy Enhances the Allure of Amazing Guizhou in Jakarta JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 August 2025 – Guizhou, a province renowned not only for the majestic Huangguoshu Waterfall and the mystical Mount Fanjing, is now more accessible than ever thanks to China's 240-hour visa-free transit policy. This initiative offers greater convenience for international travelers seeking to explore the province's rich natural beauty, vibrant ethnic culture, and technological innovation. To further promote this policy and Guizhou's tourism appeal, the '240-Hour Visa-Free Transit Promotion and Exchange Conference' was held in Jakarta, Indonesia, on the afternoon of August 4. Hosted by the Guizhou Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, the event highlighted Guizhou's diverse attractions, from shimmering Miao silverwork and the soulful Grand Songs of the Dong people to breathtaking mountain landscapes and a booming big data industry. Ms. Wang Lin, Director of the Department's Promotion and Exchange Division, gave a detailed briefing on the 240-hour visa-free transit policy, including its scope of application and compatible multi-destination travel products. She introduced Guizhou's rich tourism resources, including natural wonders, architectural marvels, ethnic heritage, summer retreats, and outdoor sports. 'This exchange aims to help more Indonesian tourism professionals understand Guizhou,' she said. 'The visa-free transit policy is a strong catalyst for encouraging Indonesian travelers to visit. As international travel becomes more convenient with enhanced flight connectivity and smoother mobile payment experiences, tourism cooperation between Guizhou and Indonesia will deepen.' ADVERTISEMENT Mr. Anton Surmali, Vice President of the Association of the Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies (ASITA), expressed appreciation for the visa policy, noting its significance in facilitating travel between the two regions. 'I've read about Guizhou's stunning landscapes and unique culture in the media,' he said. 'I look forward to visiting personally and believe this policy will attract more Indonesian tourists to the province.' Ms. Wen Weiya, Director of the International Mountain Tourism Development Center of Guizhou, introduced the evolution of international mountain tourism, the structure and scale of the International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA), and its development achievements. She emphasized that IMTA is committed to working with global tourism stakeholders in a spirit of equality, inclusivity, and collaboration to jointly build and share the outcomes of high-quality mountain tourism development. She warmly invited Indonesian businesses to join the alliance and participate in the upcoming International Mountain Tourism and Outdoor Sports Conference in Guizhou this November. Mr. Wirawan Lesmana, Director of Ayo Wisata Tour, highlighted the policy's importance in encouraging Indonesian travelers to pursue outbound tourism. 'Guizhou's rich tourism resources, combined with the visa-free advantage, offer great opportunities for collaborative product design and joint marketing to achieve mutual benefits,' he remarked. During the event, representatives from tourism associations and travel agencies in both Guizhou and Indonesia engaged in active dialogue and idea exchange. Indonesian agencies inquired in detail about the scope of the visa-free policy and suggested leveraging social media and short video platforms to boost Guizhou's visibility in the Indonesian market. They recommended creating customized travel packages tailored to Indonesian preferences to attract more tourists to Guizhou. Looking ahead, Guizhou will continue to strengthen cooperation with Indonesia's tourism industry. By leveraging the 240-hour visa-free transit policy and working closely with airlines, Guizhou aims to launch more high-quality, multi-destination travel products. These efforts will ensure that more Indonesian tourists include Guizhou in their travel itineraries, further establishing Amazing Guizhou as a world-class tourist destination. Hashtag: #GuizhouLongxiTravelAgency The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
The Hindu
16-07-2025
- Science
- The Hindu
Harvesting of cage cultured Asian Sea Bass begins at Sippikulam
The harvesting of cage-cultured Asian Sea Bass in the Integrated Multi-trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) system at Sippikulam began on Wednesday. The harvest was undertaken by the Kadaviraal group (name of the local fishermen group), organised by ICAR-Tuticorin Regional Station of Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-TRS of CMFRI). The project was funded by the National Bank of Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). The event commenced with the flagging off by the District Collector K. Elambahavath, following which the fish were harvested by the local fishermen. During the harvesting process, the grown ups were harvested in three batches, totalling a production of 420 kg, with average weight of each fish ranging between one to two kg. This partial harvesting approach was adopted to promote the faster growth of smaller fish and to generate income at regular intervals. At the event held after harvest, Thoothukudi Collector K. Elambahavath lauded the fishermen and exhorted them to continue with the IMTA farming. He emphasised that the IMTA model offers multiple income streams and ensures steady market supply. He also stressed the importance of sustainability in such activities for long term benefits. The Joint Director of Fisheries and Fishermen Welfare, Thoothukudi N. Chandra, highlighted the State government schemes aimed at socio economic development of fishermen. Ms. Chandra also elaborated on the advantages of the IMTA system, which supports the combined culture of seaweed, mussels, crab and fish. T. Bhuvanesh Ram, Assistant Collector (Training), L. Loveson Edward, Senior Scientist and Scientist-in-Charge ICAR-TRS of CMFRI, R.K. Suresh Ramalingam, DDM, NABARD Cluster, Thoothukudi, officials from forest and fisheries department and scientists from ICAR-TRS of CMFRI were present at the event.
Forbes
24-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Beyond The Algorithm: The Rise Of The Conscious Leader In The AI Age
Alex Bravo is an HBS grad, seasoned C-level executive, Sr Executive Coach, Mindfulness Teacher and board member of the IMTA. In a world where, according to some projections, knowledge doubles every 12 hours, the question isn't how much we know—it's how deeply we understand and lead ourselves and others. After 22 years in the corporate world in C-level positions and 19 as a senior executive coach and certified mindfulness teacher, I've seen it time and time again: The future doesn't belong to the smartest or the fastest. It belongs to the most conscious. Where AI Can't Compete We are living at a historical crossroads. Artificial intelligence is transforming how we work, how we think and how we interact. Yet, as powerful as AI has become, it remains inherently limited in some of the most vital aspects of leadership. Howard Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences reminds us that intelligence is not a single dimension. It spans linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, interpersonal, intrapersonal, naturalistic and existential dimensions. AI excels in a few of these: logical-mathematical, linguistic, even spatial. But when it comes to bodily-kinesthetic (felt intelligence), interpersonal (empathy), intrapersonal (self-awareness and ethics) and existential (meaning-making), it falters. These are the domains of the conscious leader. This distinction is critical—because leadership today is no longer just about results. It's about resonance. A 2010 Harvard research paper revealed that our minds wander roughly 47% of the time. Imagine the cost: strategy poorly communicated, decisions half-processed, relationships weakened by inattention. In the midst of this mental chaos, organizations are still expected to improve profitability, deliver exceptional customer and employee experiences and execute digital transformation. And it shows: Gallup reports that only 21% (download required) of employees globally are engaged at work. The rest? Disconnected, burned out and stuck in survival mode. This is why conscious leadership has become imperative. If AI excels in some intelligences, then leaders must master the ones AI cannot. That's the human edge. So, how do we rise to this challenge? The Three Dimensions Of Conscious Leadership First, we must begin by re-evaluating our relationship with presence. Conscious leadership starts within. Before a leader can inspire, they must first be in tune with their own mental, emotional and physical states. This kind of self-awareness is a prerequisite for sustainable performance. In an era flooded with distractions and constant input, cultivating the ability to pause and reflect becomes a competitive advantage. Second, organizations must support this shift. Conscious leadership cannot be relegated to the individual alone. Cultures that reward speed over depth and reactivity over reflection must evolve. Conscious companies invest in developing environments that promote psychological safety, emotional agility and continuous learning—not just technical proficiency. And third, education and leadership development must be reimagined. We must train leaders not only in strategy and execution but in stillness, listening and discernment. Imagine a new generation of executives equally fluent in data analytics and self-regulation, in strategy execution and breath control, in boardroom logic and heart-centered connection. This isn't about choosing between technology and humanity. It's about integrating both—so we may lead not just efficiently, but wisely. How To Become A Conscious Leader Science gives us part of the answer. Practices like mindfulness have been proven to enhance focus, awareness and emotional regulation. And in today's age, leaders don't have to walk this path alone. We must leverage technology in this race: using AI assistants who learn from the world's greatest leadership thinkers—or EEG (electroencephalography) technology to measure focus, engagement, excitement, interest, relaxation and stress. In my executive coaching practice, where I incorporate both mindfulness and EEG, I've witnessed leaders: • Expand their emotional intelligence • Communicate more clearly and authentically • Strengthen personal accountability • Develop talent with intention and purpose • Inspire others through their grounded presence • Build deeper relationships and generate trust This is not science fiction. This is the science of consciousness. Because in the era of AI, the competitive edge doesn't come from knowing more. It comes from being more. A more conscious leader is a more complete leader. And a more complete leader is exactly what this volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous world demands. So, let me leave you with this reflection: You can lead from urgency, or you can lead from awareness. You can act from reactivity, or you can choose intentionality. The conscious path is not always the easiest. But it is always the most powerful. And in the age of AI, it may be the only path that ensures we remain deeply, unmistakably human. Forbes Coaches Council is an invitation-only community for leading business and career coaches. Do I qualify?
Associated Press
30-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
The 'International Mountain Tourism Day 2025' Theme Events Officially Kick Off in Gran Canaria, Spain
On May 29, 2025 local time, the 'International Mountain Tourism Day 2025" Theme Events officially kicked off in Gran Canaria, Spain. Centered around the theme 'Embracing Mountains and Seas, Coexisting with Cultures—Mountain Tourism and Cultural Inclusiveness for the Future,' the event brought together a diverse group of prestigious international organizations, government officials, industry leaders, experts, and scholars, and media professionals from around the world. The gathering aims to explore paths of inclusive and reciprocal global mountain tourism and shared development. Scene from the Opening Ceremony A series of activities were held as part of the Theme Events, including the Opening Ceremony, the Theme Forum, the Exchange and Sharing Session of Mountain Culture and Tourism, the China-Spain Cultural and Tourism Exchange Exhibition, and the 'Night of Gran Canaria' Welcome Dinner. Guests participated in various formats to exchange advanced ideas, discuss frontier issues, and deepen practical cooperation. At the Opening Ceremony, keynote addresses were delivered by Dominique de Villepin, Chairman of the International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA); Miguel Sanz, General Director of Turespaña; Antonio Morales Méndez, President of the Government of Gran Canaria, Spain; Christine Brew, Representative of UN Tourism; and Yang Changqing, Director of the Oficina Nacional de Turismo de China en Madrid. Liang Nan, Counsellor of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Spain, was specially designated by H.E. Yao Jing, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Spain and the Principality of Andorra, to attend the ceremony and deliver a speech on his behalf. He Yafei, Vice Chairman and Secretary-General of IMTA, and Song Xiaolu, Deputy Director General of Department of Culture and Tourism of Guizhou Province, China, also delivered insightful remarks. At the event, Dominique de Villepin, Chairman of the International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA), and Christine Brew, Representative of UN Tourism, exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding, signaling a future of constructive cooperation in promoting innovative governance in mountain tourism and advancing sustainable development. Peter Semone, Chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), released the Asia-Pacific Mountain TourismDevelopment Report (2025), jointly compiled by IMTA and PATA. The report provides a systematic analysis of the far-reaching impact of sustainable tourism on economic growth, cultural exchange, and ecological conservation. It also offers forward-looking strategic insights and professional recommendations for the development of mountain tourism in the Asia-Pacific region. The event also witnessed the release of the Enjoy the Wonder of Mountains, Share the Natural Beauty—The 'International Mountain Tourism Day 2025" Gran Canaria Initiative. The initiative, grounded in the concepts of mutual learning among civilizations and integrative innovation, calls on governments, enterprises, communities, and other stakeholders to strengthen cooperation, actively promote environmentally friendly tourism, and jointly build an open, inclusive, and mutually enriching mountain civilization. Dominique de Villepin, Chairman of the International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA), and Christine Brew, Representative of UN Tourism, exchanged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) 'The IMTD has now emerged as a vital platform, not only showcasing the rich and varied values of our mountain regions but also fostering deeper exchanges within our industry and strengthening international collaboration,' said Dominique de Villepin, Chairman of the International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA). He emphasized that this year's Theme Events—held against the backdrop of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, and the 20th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Spain—will carry forward the spirit of 'Mutual Understanding among People.' By bringing together the insights and expertise of industry leaders, it will be a powerful force in fostering cultural inclusiveness and deepening the bonds between China and Europe. Miguel Sanz, General Director of Turespaña, noted that mountain tourism is one of the key directions for the future of global tourism. Turespaña is fully committed to promoting the sustainable transformation of Spain's tourism sector, aiming to achieve a balanced development that aligns environmental protection, social responsibility, and economic growth. The goal is to foster a new tourism model that is green, low-carbon, and enhances residents' well-being. Liang Nan, Counsellor of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Spain, stated that on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between China and Spain, he expressed hope that mountain tourism, as a unique vehicle, would further deepen cultural exchanges between the two countries. He also invited more Spanish friends to appreciate the grandeur of China's landscapes and the charm of its civilization, and to jointly open a new chapter in China-Spain tourism cooperation. Christine Brew, Representative of UN Tourism, emphasized that mountain tourism is a vital tool for promoting inclusive development, environmental protection, and cultural heritage preservation—particularly through its strong linkages to community empowerment and rural revitalization. She underscored that mountain tourism plays a key role in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), directly contributing to multiple targets. Scene from the Panel Discussion The supporting activities were rich and vibrant. The China-Spain Cultural and Tourism Exchange Exhibition showcased the natural and cultural landscapes of mountain destinations in both countries through fine brush paintings and photographic works. The 'Night of Gran Canaria' Welcome Dinner featured a spectacular blend of traditional Chinese intangible cultural heritage performances by ethnic minorities and the passionate expressions of Spanish folk art. Together, they created a vivid scene of mutual cultural appreciation and harmonious coexistence between civilizations, set against the backdrop of mountains and seas. The event was co-hosted by the International Mountain Tourism Alliance (IMTA) and Turismo de Gran Canaria, with strong support from UN Tourism, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), the Global Tourism Economy Forum (GTEF), the Mountain Partnership Secretariat (MPS) hosted by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Oficina Nacional de Turismo de China en Madrid, the Guizhou Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, China, and the Foreign Affairs Office of Guizhou Province (Guizhou Provincial People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries), China. The 'International Mountain Tourism Day' is an international commemorative day initiated by the International Mountain Tourism Alliance in 2018. Since its first launch on May 29, 2019, the theme events have been successfully held in China, Nepal, Laos, France, and Spain for seven consecutive years. Media Contact Company Name: International Mountain Tourism Alliance Contact Person: Zhang Yijing Email: Send Email City: Guizhou Country: China Website:
