The opening ceremony of the 17th UNWTO/PATA International Forum on Tourism Trends and Outlook. [Photo provided to en.gxzf.gov.cn]

The opening ceremony of the 17th UNWTO/PATA International Forum on Tourism Trends and Outlook was held in Guilin, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, on Oct 27.

The event gathered over 120 representatives from over 20 countries and regions, including the United States, France, Belgium, and Spain.

Beka Jakeli, director of external relations for the UNWTO, said at the opening ceremony that Guilin has a superior geographical location, unique natural environment, and unlimited tourism resources.

The UNWTO/PATA International Forum on Tourism Trends and Outlook is the only international forum held annually by the UNWTO in China. It has become a platform for international tourism exchanges, cooperation, and exhibition. 

After 17 years of innovative development, this forum has become an important bridge for the world to understand China, appreciate Guangxi, and connect with Guilin.

A panel session is held during the forum. [Photo provided to en.gxzf.gov.cn]

Guilin is known for its beautiful scenery and spectacular karst landscape. The Lijiang River in Guilin was selected as one of the 15 most beautiful rivers in the world.

Jakeli added that Guilin has achieved good results in the transformation and upgrading of its tourism industry. It is reported that in the first three quarters of 2023, Guilin received 110 million tourists and achieved a total tourism consumption revenue of 135.2 billion yuan ($18.53 billion).