The World Tourism Organization (WTO) will become more visible and prestigious after being transformed into a United Nations specially designated agency, said a senior tourism official here Tuesday.

Paride Andreoli, Minister of Tourism, Commerce, Sport and Transport of the Republic of San Marino, noted at the 15th WTO General Assembly that the new status would increase the importance of tourism in the eyes of the public, placing it on an equal footing with other sectors like agriculture, culture and transport, which were all represented by UN specialized agencies.

WTO member nations share the approach towards the sustainable development of tourism, and favor assistance and cooperation projects for developing countries and poverty reduction, he acknowledged.

The San Marino minister expressed the hope that the WTO would continue to encourage and technically assist member countries in developing a tourism data collection network and help improve tourism quality through the means of education and training.

The assembly, gathering the most authoritative tourism leaders worldwide, was a tangible proof of how a vast nation like China could overcome the SARS crisis, which hit the country a few months ago, as well as a reassuring message to those who are still doubtful and worrisome about the prospects of world tourism.
 
(Xinhua News Agency October 22, 2003)