Jamaica’s position as a leader in the global tourism arena has been further bolstered after the destination was elected to serve in several key leadership positions within the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO).

Tourism minister Edmund Bartlett (pictured) revealed: “Jamaica has been elected to serve as vice president for the 19th General Assembly of the UNWTO now underway in South Korea and as Jamaica’s representative I will again preside over several sessions of the Assembly.

“It is an honour for Jamaica to serve in this capacity and our selection further underscores our good standing in the international arena and the confidence our counterparts place in Jamaica as a leader within the tourism industry at the global level.”

Bartlett, who is being accompanied by director general in the ministry of tourism, Carrole Guntley is currently attending the 19th General Assembly which runs from October 8th-14th.

The minister explained: “Jamaica has previously served as vice president of the General Assembly, with the last occasion being when Jamaica was elected to this post during the 18th session of the General Assembly in Astana, Kazakhstan in October 2009.

“We look forward to serving in this esteemed role once again.” 

Jamaica is also in the running for the prestigious title of Caribbean’s Leading Destination at the World Travel Awards which will take place on the island later this month

Bartlett outlined that Jamaica has also been elected to serve on the Committee of Affiliate Members.

He explained: “I am extremely pleased that Jamaica has been elected to serve on the Committee of Affiliate Members as this will give us an opportunity to assist in broadening the membership of the UNWTO internationally.

“Jamaica is the only member from the Americas region on this global committee and we will use this platform to play our role in increasing wide-scale support for the UNWTO and its policies.”

Among the critical meetings which Minister Bartlett will participate in during the General Assembly is the Minister’s Roundtable, the meeting of the Commission for the Americas, as well as the meeting of the UNWTO Executive Council.

Jamaica assumed its position on the Executive Council, in January 2011 and will remain a member until 2013.

Jamaica is one of three representatives of the entire Americas region on the body, which in consultation with the Secretary General deliberates on policies and strategies that affect tourism worldwide before making recommendations to the General Assembly for action.

The minister concluded: “As a member of the Executive Council Jamaica will continue to offer strong representation for countries in the Americas and deliberate on tourism issues at the global level.

“We will also continue our drive to boost UNWTO membership within the region.”

Meanwhile, Bartlett also lauded The Bahamas which on being nominated by Jamaica, was elected Vice Chairman of the Commission for the Americas.