Martinique to host 2013 Caribbean Tourism Organization State of the Industry Conference

Mrs. Karine Roy-Camille, the Martinique Commissioner for Tourism, addressed the closing ceremonies of the 2012 CTO Conference in St. Kitts inviting everyone to the 2013 Conference, which will move to Martinique where a French-Creole warmth awaits everyone.

In her address, Mrs. Karine Roy-Camille said: “Ladies and gentlemen, fellow Ministers and Directors of Tourism, distinguished guests, dear friends of the press – thank you for allowing me these precious moments to address you before we head for our homes.

“I’d like to begin by offering my sincere thanks and appreciation to Minister Skerritt on hosting such a wonderful conference these past few days. The success of this important event here on your home soil is a fitting tribute to your distinguished tenure as CTO Chairman. We’ll miss your stewardship, but I’m sure we can always count on your input and contributions well into the future.

“I’d also like to congratulate the esteemed Commissioner of Tourism from the US Virgin Islands, Mrs. Beverly Nicholson-Doty, on her election to succeed Minister Skerritt as the new Chair-woman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization.

“Your achievements serve as an inspiration to women across the region, showing that vibrant and rewarding careers in tourism are possible for all Caribbean people, regardless of their gender. I’m sure I speak for the rest of my Tourism Minister colleagues in saying that we all very much look forward to your leadership in the years to come.

“Two years ago, when the current governing administration was elected in Martinique, we in the Martinique Tourism Authority adopted a new development strategy.

“This strategy was developed in close concert with the President of Martinique’s Regional Council, the Honorable Serge Letchimy, ensuring strong cooperation across a broad spectrum of key public and private sector stakeholders.

“For the first time in many years, travel and tourism interests in Martinique were united with one singular goal: to grow Martinique’s tourism industry into the leading driving force of the island’s economy.

“Unity on the home front in Martinique continues to be a critical component of our plan, but so too is unity on a larger pan-regional level.

“On its own, Martinique is strong. But united with you, our Caribbean neighbors, all of us working together to grow tourism to the entire region as a whole, we have the potential to be truly special.

“Establishing and maintaining closer ties with our Caribbean neighbors remains a key element of our development strategy. As a result, Martinique is now actively involved in the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as the OECS.

“Over the past two years, Martinique has also increased its profile within CTO and CTDC, becoming a more active and vocal member to the benefit of our promotional efforts, particularly in the US and Canada.

“For next year, I have the pleasure to announce that Martinique will take another big step forward [in] our ever-strengthening commitment to CTO by hosting the 2013 State of the Industry Conference.

“On behalf of everyone at the Martinique Tourism Authority, the Martinique Regional Council, and the Honorable Serge Letchimy, let me say that we consider hosting this conference a great honor and are extremely proud of it. We look forward to welcoming you all to the Isle of Flowers next year and giving you a taste of our special brand of French-Creole warmth and hospitality.

“For now, I wish you a productive last day here in St. Kitts, a memorable closing party, and safe travels home.”