Premier highlights tourism potential at G20 meeting

The Kingdom of the Zulu, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) was in the spotlight at the second G20 Tourism Working Group (TWS) meeting that kicked off in Durban on Sunday May 11 and concluded on Tuesday May 13.

KZN Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, expressed pride in the province’s role in shaping international tourism discourse, as the second G20 got started. 

Welcoming the international delegates attending the meeting on Sunday, Premier Ntuli highlighted KZN’s diverse offerings. He focused on the cultural heritage and natural beauty to world-class hospitality, and innovation - as pillars of its appeal for global tourism partnerships and investment.

“This is more than a meeting. It is a statement that KwaZulu-Natal is ready to lead, connect, and contribute on the global stage. We are honoured to host the world’s tourism leaders and share our vision for a sustainable tourism economy that creates jobs, drives growth, and uplifts communities,” Premier Ntuli said.

The Second G20 TWG meeting took place at the Coastlands Hotel. The high-level gathering brought together policymakers, tourism experts and industry leaders from G20 member countries. They discussed collaborative strategies for inclusive and sustainable tourism development.

The meeting also formed part of South Africa’s broader G20 chairship programme, positioning both the country and the province as influential players in shaping the future of global tourism.

Premier Ntuli reaffirmed the province’s commitment to supporting national development priorities and emphasised the importance of using international platforms to boost local economic development.

The Durban meeting follows the first virtual TWG engagement held in March, where the G20 member states agreed on four strategic priorities that will inform the G20 action plan on tourism development.

These include a people-centred artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation to enhance travel and tourism start-ups and SMMEs (Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises); enhancing tourism financing and investment to enhance equality and promote sustainable development; strengthening air connectivity for seamless travel; and building an enhanced resilience for inclusive, sustainable tourism development.