UNESCO AND DANANG TOURISM ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE DISCUSSING SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

Danang, December 1, 2024 – At the Furama Resort Danang, the Danang Tourism Association and UNESCO jointly hosted a discussion themed “Building a Sustainable Tourism Industry in Danang.” The event brought together leading experts in sustainable tourism, representatives from the Danang Tourism Association, UNESCO, and SOVICO Group – UNESCO’s strategic partner.

Representing UNESCO at the event:

• Mr. Peter DeBrine, Expert in the Sustainable Tourism Program at the UNESCO World Heritage Centre.
• Ms. Phạm Thị Thanh Hường, Head of Culture, UNESCO Hanoi.
• Ms. Lê Anh Thư, Project Officer for Culture, UNESCO.

Representing the Danang Tourism Association:

• Mr. Cao Trí Dũng, Chairman of the Danang Tourism Association.
• Mr. Nguyễn Đức Quỳnh, Vice Chairman of the Danang Tourism Association and Chairman of the Danang Hotel Association.

The discussion focused on exploring solutions to promote sustainable tourism development in Danang, aligned with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria. Mr. Cao Trí Dũng, Chairman of the Danang Tourism Association, emphasized: “We hope UNESCO can support the Association with specific guidelines, a clear roadmap, and practical methods to effectively implement the ESG sustainable development model for our members and affiliated clubs. This will not only help Danang’s tourism sector thrive but also preserve cultural, natural, and community values.”

Mr. Peter DeBrine, representing UNESCO, affirmed: “UNESCO is committed to supporting Danang in becoming a model for sustainable tourism development through training programs, consulting, and international connections. Tourism development should not only focus on economic gains but also ensure harmony with nature, culture, and society.”

Ms. Phạm Thị Thanh Hường, from UNESCO Hanoi, added: “Danang has great potential to become a hub for sustainable tourism in the region. We are ready to share experiences and assist the Association in developing appropriate standards and policies to achieve this goal.”

The conference also welcomed valuable contributions from SOVICO Group, UNESCO’s strategic partner, which proposed funding solutions and the implementation of large-scale sustainable tourism models. This event marked a significant step forward in guiding Danang’s tourism industry toward international sustainability standards, with the support of strategic partners and leading global organizations.