PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten (CMC) — The Barbados-based Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) says it has successfully concluded business meetings here, marking a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts to strengthen and revitalise the Caribbean tourism sector.

The CTO said that under the direction of its chairman, Kenneth Bryan, who is also the minster of tourism and ports for the Cayman Islands, it has embarked on a transformative journey to re-imagine its role and impact within the global tourism landscape.

“When I took over as chairman in 2022, we decided to go through a re-imagining exercise and you can start to see the changes already,” said Bryan, citing the appointment of Dona Regis-Prosper as the CTO secretary general, the return of the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) and Bermuda to the 25-member body.

He said that progress has also been made in the re-engagement of destinations such as Montserrat.

CTO said that the highlight of the meetings here last week was the presentation of a comprehensive plan for the year ahead by Regis-Prosper, the first woman appointed to the post in the organisation’s history.

It said the business meetings focused on defining a strategic direction for the upcoming year and reviewing the organisation’s accomplishments.

“The discussions were fruitful and reflective of the vibrant spirit that characterises our collective efforts. The CTO is moving towards a reimagined, revitalised and relevant future, with a clear focus on overcoming challenges through unity and shared vision,” Bryan added.

Bryan said that a significant part of the meetings centred on the critical role of aviation in connecting the Caribbean, underscoring the commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and addressing the complexities of aviation logistics, highlighting a resolution to engage with key stakeholders, including the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and regional airlines, to advocate for increased seat capacity and facilitate more seamless travel within the Caribbean.

The meeting discussed the possibility of staging a Caribbean aviation conference with Bryan saying, “we need robust dialogue on the necessary changes to incentivise more connectivity within the region, so we’re going to put our foot down on the gas concerning this because it’s a serious concern for many members, particularly in the Eastern Caribbean”.

The CTO said its efforts have also focused on leveraging technology, artificial intelligence, and digital media to enhance the Caribbean’s appeal as the world’s leading warm-weather destination.