The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) reiterated the importance of collaboration when it welcomed European Commission Vice-President Margaritis Schinas to a high-level meeting in Madrid to look at the joint response to the ongoing crisis and the advancement of tourism plans for a vital restart .

Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary General of the UNWTO Meeting with the Margaritis Schinas, Vice President of the UNWTO stressed the need for harmonized protocols and digital solutions to enable safe international travel.

The UNWTO congratulated the European Commission on launching its Digital Green Pass and recognized its potential to resume tourism in a number of destinations. At the same time, the UNWTO leadership also praised the Commission’s initiative to support national recovery and resilience plans. The organization also paid tribute to the recent launch of the “Re-Open EU” website and mobile app, both of which effectively complement the UNWTO’s own global #RestartTourism campaign.

Commenting on the changing needs of tourism, Pololikashvili said: “Across Europe, millions of people and businesses depend on making the right decisions in order for tourism to resume. Today’s visit by Vice-President Margaritis Schinas is evidence of the importance of tourism to economic and social well-being across the European Union. More than ever, tourism needs strong political support and joint action. Harmonized travel and health rules are essential to restore confidence and resume tourism. “

Schinas added: “With vaccinations and better management of the crisis, this summer will undoubtedly be better than the last. The reopening of the borders will have an impact beyond tourism. This will drive the general recovery of Europe. And Europe will not return on its own. Europe is part of the world and we are ready to find a way to make the European Green Passport work with solutions provided by countries or groups of countries outside the EU. “