12-Dec-2017: Second UNWTO/UNESCO World Conference on Tourism and Culture at Muscat

The Minister of State for Culture (Independent Charge) Dr. Mahesh Sharma led the Indian delegation to the second UN World Tourism Organization/UNESCO World Conference on Tourism and Culture, with focus on sustainable development, which was held in Muscat, Capital city of Oman, during 11-12th December, 2017.

Dr. Mahesh Sharma highlighted India’s approach to sustainable development, while preserving nature and India’s cultural heritage. The Conference had also on its agenda themes such as culture and tourism as a factor of peace and prosperity; tourism development and protection of cultural heritage; culture and tourism and urban development and creativity; and exploring cultural land escapes in tourism. The conference also finalized the 2030 Agenda.

Bilateral discussions were held on cooperation with Turkey and Oman in fields of culture and tourism. There is a huge potential expanding tourism exchanges between the two countries.

People of Oman, due to their familiarity with India, visit India, including for medical treatment. There is a large Indian Community in Oman, numbering around 0.8 million.