Peace First: PATA Calls for Unity

TravTalkME in conversation with Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO of (PATA) Pacific Asia Travel Association about the current situation in the Middle East shared, “As a not-for-profit trade association, our foremost priority is the safety and wellbeing of our members and partners. We have reached out directly to those in affected destinations to express our solidarity and to better understand their immediate needs. While airspace closures are already disrupting travel flows, the situation represents a broader humanitarian and economic crisis with global implications.” Hamid further added in terms of the support provided by PATA for travel trade, “We are initiating a committee to gather on-the-ground updates and facilitate the sharing of clear, verified information—similar to the coordination role we played during the COVID-19 pandemic. The disruption is already affecting major industry gatherings, including the ITB Berlin, with implications for members across Asia Pacific and the Middle East.” At this point of time, it is important to come together, hence Hamid reiterated, “Travel depends on peace and stability. As PATA marks its 75th anniversary, we are reminded that tourism itself is a product of stability and cooperation. This may be the moment for global tourism associations to come together and call for de-escalation, constructive dialogue, and responsible leadership.”