Louis D’Amore, the President and founder of the International Institute for Peace Through Tourism (IIPT) presided over the opening of this important IIPT event currently taking place in Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg, South Africa.
The symposium was opened by a taped message from Archbishop Desmond Tutu. The message was followed by speeches from significant leaders in tourism.
Louis D’Amore said: “Having this conference in the land of Nelson Mandela is so appropriate. Tourism is a transformative force that builds bridges between people and nations. Tourism prospers when there is peace, and both depend on each other. We can design a more sensitive tourism sector by engaging and respecting local communities.”
Mr. D’Amore provided a recap of all of the speeches at the opening ceremony in order to emphasize the significant aspects. He then thanked all of the contributors to this symposium.