Special Envoy of the President and former President, Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan, has urged a global rethinking of tourism as a force for regeneration, inclusion, and peace at the Global Tourism Forum Annual Meeting 2025 in Brussels.

Speaking before international leaders and industry experts, Dr Waheed emphasised that tourism should be seen not just as an economic driver but as a transformative tool that connects people, protects the planet, and fosters shared prosperity.

He highlighted the Maldives’ efforts as a “Large Ocean State” to balance growth with environmental stewardship, noting that resorts are leading initiatives in coral restoration, renewable energy, and waste reduction. These actions, he said, mark a shift from luxury-focused tourism to experiences rooted in purpose and sustainability.

Dr Waheed reaffirmed the Maldives’ climate commitments, including President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s target to cut one-third of emissions from energy generation by 2028. He further underscored the importance of innovation and inclusivity, urging investment in human, cultural, ecological, and social capital to create a more resilient global tourism industry.

Representing the Maldives at the two-day event, Dr Waheed called on world leaders, investors, and travellers to unite in making tourism a genuine force for regeneration and peace. The Global Tourism Forum 2025 is being held in Brussels from 20 to 21 October.