The Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Patricia de Lille, together with KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Mr. Thamsanqa Ntuli; MEC for Economic Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa Zondi; and eThekwini Metro Mayor, Cllr. Cyril Xaba, led today's official opening of the second G20 Tourism Working Group Meeting at Coastlands Umhlanga Hotel and Conference Centre in Durban.

"As the only African member country of the G20, South Africa, in partnership with the African Union, is providing a vital voice in global discussions, especially concerning issues affecting developing nations and the African continent," said Minister de Lille. Under the theme ‘Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability’, South Africa’s G20 presidency highlights the nation's commitment to tourism innovation and investment, enhancing air connectivity, and developing inclusive and sustainable tourism policies.

"Your discussions during the next three days will not only inform what each G20 Tourism Minister decides and debates in September when we meet in Mpumalanga, but they will also inform what our Heads of State finally agree on in Johannesburg during November," said Minister. She added that the Tourism Working Group serves as a forum for the growth and development of sustainable tourism by promoting dialogue, the exchange of knowledge, and best practices amongst the G20 members.

Premier Ntuli highlighted that hosting this event is a proud moment for KwaZulu-Natal and the nation, as it marks the first time a G20 Tourism event is being held on South African soil during the G20 Presidency."In KwaZulu-Natal, we believe that tourism can be a bridge between economies and cultures, between the past we honour and the future we shape together. And in that spirit, we look forward to the conversations, connections, and collaborations that will emerge from this meeting." He added that KZN is especially fortunate that this G20 meeting coincides with Africas Travel Indaba, one of the continents most prestigious tourism trade shows. "Together, these events transform Durban into a global platform a gathering place for thinkers, creators, and changemakers in the tourism sector. This convergence speaks to the power of partnership a core principle of the G20 and a value we hold dear in KwaZulu-Natal," said Premier Ntuli