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This week, the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) team—led by Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker alongside members of the SPTO Board of Directors from National Tourism Organisations—gathered in Beijing for a week-long seminar on the Sustainable Development of Tourism in South Pacific Island Countries. The seminar provided a vital space for learning, dialogue, and strengthening partnerships across borders.
Setting the tone for the week, CEO Christopher Cocker delivered remarks on behalf of the Pacific, emphasising collaboration, resilience, and a shared regional vision. The Pacific delegation included representatives from American Samoa, the Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tahiti, and Vanuatu.
“This gathering presents a significant opportunity for us to collectively explore, discuss, and forge pathways towards a more sustainable future for tourism in the Pacific,” Cocker said. “The Pacific Islands are a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and rich traditions. But we must also recognise the challenges of balancing development and preservation. Through collaboration, innovation, and shared knowledge, I am confident we can shape a tourism future that benefits all, particularly our local communities.”
Regional cooperation was a central theme throughout the seminar, with side meetings providing space to explore future collaboration, regional priorities, and long-term planning. These discussions underscored SPTO’s forward-looking vision as the organisation prepares for 2026 and beyond, ensuring that Pacific tourism remains resilient and strategically aligned.
Delegates also immersed themselves in China’s rich cultural heritage. Highlights included a tour of the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a visit to the bustling Hongqiao Pearl Market. These experiences offered valuable insights into how heritage, culture, and tourism intersect on a large scale, reinforcing the importance of cultural preservation within tourism development.
Knowledge exchange sessions further enriched the programme, focusing on China’s ecotourism initiatives and innovative approaches to integrating intangible cultural heritage with tourism.
In acknowledging the organisers, Cocker said: “We extend our sincere gratitude to the Central Academy of Culture and Tourism Administration and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China. Your dedication reflects a strong commitment to fostering international collaboration and sustainable tourism practices.”
