Former US Secretary of State John Kerry to headline WTTC Global Summit in Perth

Former US Secretary of State John Kerry to headline WTTC Global Summit in Perth
Edited by Travel Weekly


The 68th United States Secretary of State John Kerry will be The World Travel & Tourism Council keynote speaker at the global tourism body’s Global Summit, taking place on 8-10 October, in Perth, Western Australia.

Secretary Kerry led strategies on nuclear non-proliferation, countering extremism, and in 2015, Kerry signed the Paris Agreement on climate change on behalf of the US.

In 2021, he became the first Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, and the first Principal to sit on the National Security Council solely focused on climate issues.

A decorated Vietnam War veteran, Kerry earned a Silver Star, a Bronze Star with Combat V, and three Purple Hearts.

Kerry is a best-selling author and was also awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2024 for his lifetime commitment to public service.

“We are honoured to welcome Secretary John Kerry as a keynote speaker at our Global Summit in Perth,” Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said. “His unparalleled experience and dedication to tackling climate change and global challenges align perfectly with our mission to drive a more sustainable and resilient future for the Travel & Tourism sector.

“Secretary Kerry’s insights will undoubtedly inspire our sector as we come together to forge innovative solutions that balance economic growth with our responsibility to protect our planet.”

WA Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti said securing John Kerry for the conference is a huge coup for Western Australia.

“We’re really excited to see the incredible insight and experience he will share with the hundreds of business and tourism leaders who attend,” she said.

“Hosting this summit for the first time in Australia is an amazing opportunity for us to showcase Western Australia’s natural beauty to some of the most influential and important tourism leaders in the world, while also elevate new tourism investment opportunities.

“Of course, with business delegate spend generally being up to five times more than the average leisure visitor, there are also major economic benefits to be realised from events like WTTC, which is why we continue to invest and focus on attracting these to WA alongside our other major events.”

The Global Summit will draw industry leaders and government representatives from around the world, providing a crucial opportunity to collaborate on strategies that ensure the continued growth and sustainability of global Travel & Tourism​.

Australian conservationist and TV personality Robert Irwin will also take to the stage in Perth. As a wildlife warrior, Irwin is also a producer, author and photographer, and renowned around the world for his advocacy for the natural world.

To view the full list of speakers confirmed so far, please click HERE.

Robert_Irwin and a quokka

 

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