The World Travel & Tourism Council welcomed Nick Adams, who delivered his first major international public address since assuming office, marking a new chapter in U.S. leadership within the global travel and tourism industry.

Adams’ participation followed WTTC leadership sessions recently held in Egypt, where former heads of state, ministers, business leaders, and tourism executives discussed the next phase of recovery and long-term transformation for the global tourism sector.

As the first-ever U.S. Presidential Special Envoy for Tourism, Adams emphasized a renewed era of public-private cooperation, reinforcing tourism’s strategic role in both the American and global economy.

The United States, host of the G20 and leader of the world’s largest travel and tourism market, currently represents $2.63 trillion in travel and tourism GDP. In this context, the new position carries growing international relevance as governments and industry leaders seek to attract investment, remove barriers to growth, and strengthen long-term sector resilience.

During his keynote speech, “Shaping the Next Phase of Travel,” Adams outlined the priorities that will shape U.S. tourism leadership in the years ahead. His remarks focused on public policy, strategic investment, international cooperation, and destination competitiveness, while highlighting the importance of rebuilding traveler confidence and creating a more resilient tourism industry.

Adams also joined Manfredi Lefebvre for an exclusive discussion on how stronger collaboration between governments and the private sector can accelerate tourism growth and enhance global competitiveness.

“The United States is the number one travel market in the world, and my goal is to drive greater growth, jobs, and national pride across the sector,” Adams said. He also stated that the U.S. aims to reach 100 million annual visitors by 2030, leveraging major events such as the FIFA World Cup and America 250 celebrations.

Meanwhile, Gloria Guevara said the creation of this new position by the U.S. government sends “a powerful message” about the strategic importance of travel and tourism for the global economy.

“Travel and tourism contributes $11.6 trillion to global GDP, supports 366 million jobs, and accounts for nearly one in every ten dollars generated worldwide,” Guevara stated.

Lefebvre added that the involvement of the United States sends “a very powerful signal” regarding the country’s renewed commitment to international cooperation and the continued growth of the tourism industry.

Nick Adams’ participation builds on the momentum generated by WTTC’s historic Leadership Cruise in Egypt, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to bringing together global leaders capable of driving meaningful progress for the future of international tourism.