Pacific Tourism Organisation speaks at the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) 2025 Conference

The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) will be among the distinguished panelists at the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) 2025 Conference, to be held from August 3–8 at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort. SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker and Manager Sustainable Tourism Christina Lelea Gale will join global experts from across the region and the globe.

The GSTC conference convenes global leaders to share insights, case studies, and collaborative frameworks that harmonise tourism development with environmental and cultural integrity. SPTOs participation ensures Pacific SIDS are recognised as contributors to global sustainability narratives—and that the work already underway in the region continues to gain visibility and support.

SPTO’s presence at GSTC2025 reinforces the organisation’s longstanding commitment to positioning the Pacific as a global leader in sustainable tourism. The conference aligns with the implementation of SPTO’s Strategic Plan 2025–2029, notably Strategic Focus Area 1: Sustainable Destination Management and Strategic Focus Area 4: Partner Coordination. These efforts directly support Theme 3 on Climate Resilience, Adaptation, and Sustainable Recovery, a cornerstone of SPTO’s advocacy for future-proofing tourism in the face of environmental challenges.

SPTO CEO Cocker is a panellist in a session titled “Destination Roadmaps and Sustainability Plans”, focused on advancing inclusive, practical strategies that harmonize environmental conservation, cultural integrity, and economic growth.

Mr Cocker’s participation will spotlight the Pacific model of sustainability—one rooted in local leadership, culture-driven experiences, and climate action. It will also highlight the value of platforms like GSTC in elevating Pacific voices,

advancing policy dialogue, and strengthening global-regional synergies for a greener, more resilient tourism future.

“Being present in these global forums is critical—not only to share Pacific achievements, but also to strengthen our partnerships and ensure our unique development context is understood and championed,” Mr Cocker said. “It’s about reinforcing our leadership while deepening alignment with regional priorities, cultural values, and global standards.”

As momentum builds for GSTC2025, SPTO calls on its member countries and partners to continue fostering knowledge exchange, joint initiatives, and regional advocacy that ensure Pacific tourism remains a beacon of sustainability, culture, and climate action.

He added that SPTOs’ participation in platforms like GSTC2025 not only enhances SPTO’s global visibility but also strengthens regional coordination and knowledge-sharing, ensuring the voices of Pacific Island nations are represented in shaping the global tourism agenda.