Special Envoy of the President and former President of the Maldives, His Excellency Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan, delivered a compelling address at the Global Tourism Forum Annual Meeting 2025 in Brussels, urging global leaders to redefine tourism as a transformative force for regeneration, inclusion, and peace.
Speaking under the theme “Redefining Tourism in a Changing World,” Dr Waheed challenged the conventional metrics of tourism, calling for a shift away from measuring success solely by arrivals and profits. “Tourism is not just about numbers,” he said. “It is about connecting people and places. It remains one of the last great forces for uniting humanity in a divided world.”
Dr Waheed highlighted the Maldives’ journey as a “Large Ocean State” committed to balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship. He praised the country’s resorts for leading by example—restoring coral reefs, adopting renewable energy, reducing waste, and engaging guests in conservation efforts. “Visitors no longer come only for luxury; they come for meaning,” he affirmed.
He also cited President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s pledge to reduce one-third of emissions from energy generation by 2028, alongside efforts to promote green infrastructure and ecosystem restoration. These commitments, Dr Waheed noted, reflect the Maldives’ dedication to climate resilience and sustainable development.
In his remarks, Dr Waheed called for innovation and inclusion across the global tourism industry. He urged stakeholders to invest in human, ecological, cultural, and social capital, emphasising that regenerating ecosystems, respecting cultures, empowering communities, and creating prosperity—not just profits—are essential to redefining tourism.
Concluding his address, Dr Waheed appealed to global leaders, investors, and travellers to unite in transforming tourism into a genuine force for good. “If we act together, tourism can become one of humanity’s greatest forces for regeneration, inclusion, and peace,” he said.
Dr Waheed is currently representing the Maldives at the Global Tourism Forum Annual Meeting 2025, held in Brussels from 20 to 21 October.
