Bartlett to Promote Tourism Resilience at Sustainable Blue Economy Summit in Canada

Kingston, Jamaica; Monday, March 18, 2024: Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, is set to depart the island today (March 18) to participate in Eco-Canada's Sustainable Blue Economy Summit 2024 in Halifax, Canada, on Tuesday, March 19, 2024. Minister Bartlett will be a featured speaker and thought leader at the summit, highlighting the critical importance of the blue economy to building tourism resilience and sustainability.

Commenting on the significance of the high-level summit, Minister Bartlett said: “The blue economy is intricately linked to the resilience of our tourism sector. As a small island developing state, Jamaica must prioritise sustainable practices and environmental stewardship to ensure the long-term viability of our tourism industry. I am honoured to share Jamaica's perspective on these critical issues and engage in meaningful discussions with fellow industry leaders and eco-tourism advocates.”

Eco Canada highlights that the event seeks to bring together thought leaders, environmental professionals, and experts from various fields to engage in meaningful discussions on the critical issues facing our oceans and explore innovative solutions for a sustainable blue economy. The event, themed “Sustainable Blue Economy Summit 2024: Beyond the Shoreline,” will take place at the Halifax Tower and Conference Centre in Nova Scotia.

In this regard, Minister Bartlett noted that his involvement in the summit underscores Jamaica's commitment to sustainable tourism practices and the preservation of marine ecosystems. The tourism minister will be participating in two sessions during the summit. The first session, a keynote presentation under the theme “Navigating the Blue Horizon: Inspiring a Vision for a Sustainable Blue Economy,” will take place from 1:30-2:00 PM. In this session, Minister Bartlett will address critical issues facing the ocean economy, emphasising the need for sustainable practices and responsible tourism.

Following the keynote session, Minister Bartlett will join a panel discussion titled “Empowering Coastal Communities and Indigenous Perspectives” from 3:00-4:00 PM. This engaging fireside chat will explore the involvement of coastal communities and indigenous perspectives in sustainable coastal and marine management.

Minister Bartlett is scheduled to return to Jamaica on Wednesday, March 20, 2024.