The Consulate of Thailand in Mumbai and the IIPT organised an event, "Promoting Peace Through Tourism," on September 21 in Mumbai.
The event witnessed the presence of consuls general and eminent personalities from the travel trade. It highlighted how tourism can be a harbinger of peace in the world. Adding to this, it showcased Thai cuisine and provided many fun activities, including a lucky draw for a round-trip ticket to Thailand. The Tourism Authority of Thailand also played a crucial role in making the occasion a grand success.
On the occasion, Donnawit Poolsawat, Consul General of Thailand in Mumbai, said, "We are in the 21st century, and advancements in technology and progress in social media should have made the world a better place to live in. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Conflict, mistrust, and misunderstanding still exist in our world, which is undesirable. Tourism plays a prominent role in addressing our current issues."
A profound thank you for your participation, stating that the event effectively showcased the ever-lasting positive impact of tourism on promoting global peace. While speaking to the media, Ajay Prakash, Global President of the IIPT, said that the organisation, founded in 1986 by Dr Louis D Amore, operates as a non-profit. Prakash succeeded Dr D Amore as General President last year. He noted that the International Day of Peace is celebrated worldwide on September 21 as designated by the UN General Assembly for promoting peace.
"Most people are familiar with International Tourism Day on September 27, and interestingly, this year's theme also focuses on tourism and peace Prakash remarked.
As per him, "It is implied that you need peace for tourism to be successful. Conversely, tourism can also serve as a tool for peace that is not easily understood. That is the mission of IIPT.
Prakash further noted that travel and tourism contribute 10% of global GDP, and the industry has the potential to be an ambassador of peace," he pointed out. He also emphasised that tourism is a harbinger of peace and, citing the example of Kashmir, highlighted the remarkable difference in the region's socioeconomic conditions. "It is tourism that defeats terrorism," he stated. Justifying the choice of Thailand as a partner for the event, Prakash remarked that the country welcomes everyone regardless of caste, religion or colour. 'This makes it an ideal partner for collaboration," he stated.
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