Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Within the framework of the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly and the 45th Plenary Session of Affiliate Members, Argentina was represented by Andrés Deyá, President of FAEVYT (Argentine Federation of Associations of Travel and Tourism Companies) and of FIT, the most important tourism fair in Latin America.

During the meeting, which brings together global tourism leaders, Deyá highlighted the country's leading role in global discussions on the future of the industry and emphasized the need for travel agents to continue adapting to technological changes.

“Since I took over as president of FAEVYT, I made it a goal to attend every UN Tourism Assembly because I learn, it opens my mind to what’s happening in the world and to the number of travelers projected for the future,” Deyá told ABC MUNDIAL in Riyadh.

The Argentine representative also participated in a joint presentation with the City of Buenos Aires, where he announced the organization of an International Sports Tourism Convention, sponsored by UN Tourism, to be held during the next edition of FIT.

“I spoke about the professionalism of travel agents, about next year’s FIT. We are already generating new initiatives and always bringing the voice of Argentine travel agents — and of Argentina itself — to the world,” he remarked.

Argentina in the big leagues of world tourism

During his presentation, Deyá screened the official video of the latest FIT, which featured the historic participation of the President of Argentina at the opening ceremony.

“The world saw our institutional video, and that’s great. Showcasing Argentina, the fair, and travel agents on the global stage is what I always wanted to do,” he said.

Asked about Argentina’s position in the global context, Deyá highlighted the international recognition that FAEVYT has earned and the work carried out by Argentine travel agents.

“Humbly speaking, FAEVYT plays a key role in representing travel agents. We are seen as a reference. They asked me about the registry and, above all, how Argentine agents work with technology. This assembly has a strong focus on technology and the future, and we must take note of that. If we’re not prepared, technology will surpass us,” he warned.

Strengthening ties with UN Tourism and looking ahead

Deyá also referred to the relationship with UN Tourism and to the incoming head of the organization, with whom he held a meeting in Riyadh.

“I met with her yesterday and we had a long talk. She was still amazed by what she experienced in Argentina. She promised to return next year, perhaps for the Travel Agents Congress or FIT. It would be an honor to have UN Tourism back in Argentina — that puts our country on the international stage, which is exactly what we should always aim for.”

Argentina, a quality destination

Finally, Deyá emphasized the country’s potential to continue consolidating itself as a competitive global destination.

“We are increasingly present — not only for football, tango, or food. I like to talk about our national parks, green, ecological, and adventure tourism. In Argentina, from Ushuaia to La Quiaca, we have so much to offer. We must be prepared to continue positioning Argentina as a quality tourism product,” he concluded.