NAME OF FEATURE | THE GLEANER | SUNDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2024 18 EDMUND BARTLETT FEATURE ON BEHALF of UN Tourism, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on being awarded the prestigious Order of Jamaica (OJ). Dear Minister Bartlett, you exemplify the hard work and dedication of the tourism sector. As such, it is clear that this esteemed recognition is well deserved. The Order of Jamaica, one of the very highest levels of recognition for your country, is a fitting tribute to your unwavering commitment and remarkable contributions to Jamaica’s tourism industry. It is no surprise that your tireless efforts and passion for tourism have captured the attention of the Jamaican Government, which has chosen to bestow this great honour upon you. Your illustrious career has seen numerous accolades for your outstanding performance on the international stage, and this latest recognition only further solidifies your reputation as a leader in global tourism. Under your leadership, Jamaica’s tourism sector has experienced extraordinary growth. Just last year alone, the country welcomed approximately 4.1 million visitors, reflecting a remarkable 16 per cent increase over the previous year, and a 7.5 per cent increase compared to pre-pandemic numbers in 2019. Your visionary approach, especially during the pandemic, was widely admired. The introduction of resilient corridors ensured that the wheels of tourism continued to turn, allowing visitors to safely experience the island’s rich and diverse attractions, all while adhering to health protocols. These resilient corridors, encompassing key tourism regions, were instrumental in safeguarding both Jamaica’s tourism industry and the health of its visitors. Moreover, your advocacy for the establishment of a Global Tourism Resilience Centre in the Caribbean, alongside a Sustainable Tourism Observatory, has been groundbreaking. This initiative, aimed at enhancing destinations’ preparedness, management, and recovery from crises that impact tourism and threaten economies and livelihoods, has garnered global recognition and admiration. Once again, congratulations, dear Minister Bartlett, on this distinguished national honour. UN Tourism commends your exceptional leadership and extends its best wishes for your continued success in advancing Jamaica’s tourism and inspiring global excellence in the sector. ZURAB POLOLIKASHVILI Secretary General of the UN Tourism UN Tourism commends your exceptional leadership Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett with his Pacific Area Travel Writers Association International Travel Awards Lifetime Achievement Award For Promotion of Sustainable Travel & Tourism (2023). CONTRIBUTED
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