Morocco was officially chosen to host the 24th Session of the World Tourism Organization (WTO), which will take place in 2021. The result was released during the closing of this year’s assembly in St. Petersburg. Kenya and the Philippines were among their competitors. The winner was chosen by a vote by Member States of the UN specialized tourism agency.
“I sincerely congratulate Morocco. They are a longtime WTO ally and at this General Assembly they have clearly demonstrated how the Kingdom has adopted tourism as a driver of positive change in recent decades, “said WTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili.” Morocco has also shown that it has the infrastructure and the commitment necessary to host the event. At the same time, I thank Kenya and the Philippines for their nominations. Both had exceptionally strong cases.”
The three Member States have submitted their applications in the previous days, highlighting their commitment to accessibility and sustainability and to the use of tourism as a factor in job creation and economic growth for all. For the first time at a WTO General Assembly, state representatives used an anonymous electronic voting system. This change of paper bills aligns the WTO with other UN agencies.
The assembly will be held in the city of Marrakech, with dates to be confirmed.