TSTT Tourism & Society - WTTC honours its ambassadors in Malta

WTTC honours its ambassadors in Malta

10-10-2026

Malta was the setting chosen by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) to pay tribute to those who carry its voice around the world. During its 26th Global Summit, held on the Mediterranean island, the organisation recognised on 8 October 2026 the work of its network of ambassadors, a group of twelve distinguished figures whose careers have spanned government, international organisations, tourism companies and the wider business world.

The recognition is no mere formality. The ambassadors play a very specific role in the Council’s work: they represent it in their respective regions, open doors to public and private sector leaders, and support the mission of a body that brings together the private travel and tourism sector worldwide. Their personal standing and first-hand knowledge of each market help the sector’s message reach the places where decisions are made.

Gloria Guevara, President and CEO of WTTC, underlined the value this group brings. “Our Ambassadors bring unparalleled experience and insight from across government, business and international organisations,” she said. She also noted that the influence of these figures helps to strengthen the Council’s voice on the international stage.

Among those honoured are two names closely tied to the recent history of global tourism governance. Professor Francesco Frangialli led the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), now UN Tourism, as Secretary-General from 1997 to 2009. He was succeeded by Dr Taleb Rifai, who held the post from 2010 to 2017 and also served as Jordan’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities.

Government experience is likewise represented by Nikolina Angelkova, former Minister of Tourism of Bulgaria, and by Dr Abulfas Garayev, who served as Minister of Culture and Tourism of Azerbaijan and as a member of the UNWTO Executive Council. They are joined by Dho Young-shim, former Ambassador for Tourism and Sports of Korea and former Chairperson of the Board of the UNWTO ST-EP Foundation, which promotes sustainable tourism as a tool against poverty.

The Asia-Pacific region is particularly well represented. Martin J. Craigs and Dr Mario Hardy each led the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) as chief executive, at different times. Alongside them is Clement Kwok, former Managing Director and CEO of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, the company that operates The Peninsula Hotels.

Japan contributes two representatives linked to JTB Corp., one of the country’s major travel groups. Hiromi Tagawa chaired the company and served as its chief executive, as well as holding the position of Vice Chair of WTTC itself. Hiroyuki Takahashi currently chairs its board of directors and heads the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA).

The Americas complete the list with two figures drawn from destination marketing and from the hotel and travel business. Caroline Beteta was President and CEO of Visit California, the body responsible for promoting the US state. Alex Zozaya Gorostiza, for his part, founded AMResorts and served as CEO and Executive Chairman of Apple Leisure Group.

Beyond the individual names, WTTC sought to highlight the collective work of this network. The ambassadors support the Council’s advocacy on behalf of the sector, strengthen relationships with political and business leaders, and champion an idea the Council regards as central: that travel and tourism is a driver of economic growth, job creation and social prosperity.

The World Travel & Tourism Council is the global body representing the private sector of this industry and a leading authority on its economic and social impact. With the tribute held in Malta, the organisation publicly recognises those who, drawing on experience gained in ministries, multilateral bodies and major companies, help that voice to be heard more clearly in every region.

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