Colombian President Gustavo Petro missed the Vitrina Turística de ANATO’s opening ceremony, reflecting a departure from traditional expectations of presidential engagement at such key events. The fair highlighted security challenges but still attracted substantial attendance from various stakeholders. Notable leaders emphasized the importance of tourism for economic growth, addressing both current security concerns and opportunities for collaboration across regions and sectors.
On Wednesday, Colombian President Gustavo Petro chose to forgo the opening ceremony of the Vitrina Turística de ANATO, the nation’s premier travel and tourism fair, which is currently in its 44th edition. This decision signifies a shift in his approach to public engagements, prioritizing personal events over the country’s representation at a critical juncture for tourism, a crucial driver of Colombia’s economic prospects. The muted applause during his absence highlighted the discontent regarding the current administration’s management of security issues.
Despite concerns surrounding safety, the opening day of ANATO witnessed a robust attendance from industry professionals and the public. Various regions, despite security deteriorations, showcased their unique gastronomy and cultural heritage. This event continues to serve as a significant platform for the promotion of Colombia’s tourism sector, emphasizing the importance of addressing security challenges in discussions among stakeholders.
The event featured notable participants such as Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism Luis Carlos Reyes, Bogotá Mayor Carlos Fernando Galán, and ProColombia President Carmen Caballero. Each emphasized their commitment to the tourism industry and the enhancements underway in Colombia’s diverse regions, further underlining the event’s vital role in the future of the tourism sector.
Mayor Galán praised Bogotá’s ongoing infrastructure advancements, including the near-completion of the first line of the Bogotá Metro. He stated, “Together, we will resolve challenges and continue moving forward.” In contrast, Santa Marta’s Mayor Carlos Pinedo highlighted the city’s rich history and commitment to burgeoning tourist development ahead of its 500th anniversary.
Marcelo Freixo, President of Embratur, called for enhanced collaboration between Brazil and Colombia, highlighting tourism’s role in promoting responsible development. Minister Reyes reinforced the government’s commitment to enhancing Colombia’s tourism landscape, aiming to reach 20 million international visitors annually and ensure economic growth across regions.
The Vitrina Turística de ANATO serves as a crucial professional travel event, projected to generate over 220,000 business contacts and approximately $128 million in potential deals this year alone, reflecting a 6% growth from the prior year. The event aims to create 5,600 new jobs by 2025, marking significant employment growth in the industry.
As the fair showcases over 1,500 exhibitors, it encourages travel to previously stigmatized areas, enriching the visibility of the country’s diverse offerings. However, the mayors of Colombia’s largest cities issued a collective video statement emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures in collaboration with the Ministry of Defense and National Police to ensure safety within the tourism sector.
The opening of the Vitrina Turística de ANATO highlights both the potential and challenges facing Colombia’s tourism sector. With an emphasis on security concerns, the commitment of leaders to collaborate effectively is essential for ensuring the sustainable growth of the industry. This event underscores the resilience of Colombian tourism in striving to attract domestic and international visitors alike.
Original Source: thecitypaperbogota.com
