George W. Bush, the 43rd president of the United States, has spoken as the keynote speaker at the annual 2012 GBTA Convention at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.

A standing room-only crowd welcomed the president, who spoke candidly about leadership, his time in office and the decision making process behind some of the most challenging moments during his presidency.

The president then sat for a one-on-one interview with Michael McCormick, GBTA executive director and chief operating office discussing global events, the economy and his memoir, Decision Points.

President Bush’s appearance was sponsored by Orbitz for Business.

On leadership, Bush said, “When you get into the Oval Office, you better be ready to make decisions.

“To run a company or an organisation, you need to have a vision and principals.

“State them clearly and honour them.”

In the sit down interview with McCormick, he talked about his first foreign trip as president and Air Force One.

Bush said humorously: “Our country does Presidential travel right.”

GBTA Media Group

Continuing a day of breaking news at Convention, GBTA announced the launch of its new GBTA Media Group.

Through advocacy in radio, television, online and in print, the Association will build a dynamic media presence.

The first phase of the media group is the launch of its new magazine, Global Business Travel, which was unveiled during the general session by McCormick.

The first full issue of the print magazine will be published in January 2013.