2016-09-08
Georgia is hosting the first International Wine Tourism Conference organized by the UN World Tourism Organization (the UNWTO). Official opening ceremony was attended by the Prime Minister of Georgia Giorgi Kvirikashvili. The head of the Government thanked the Secretary General of the UNWTO Taleb Rifai for selecting Georgia to host this first UNWTO global conference on wine tourism and expressed hope to deepen the cooperation.
"It is my great pleasure to welcome you to this first UNWTO global conference on wine tourism to Georgia, the birthplace of wine. I hope you enjoyed your time here in Tbilisi and were able to get a flavor of Georgia's rich and vibrant culture. Over the coming days, you will have the opportunity to see more of our beautiful country and learn about the ancient traditions of wine-making, which date back some 8000 years. You will also see how in practice these traditions shape Georgia today. Last year we exported over 36 million bottles of wine, not least through wine tourism. Tourism is growing rapidly in Georgia and contributes substantially to our economic growth and development. It is therefore no surprise that relations Georgia and the UNWTO are strong, and getting stronger by the year," - Prime Minister indicated in his speech.
Giorgi Kvirikashvili pointed out that Georgia has its own, unique and traditional methods to make wine such as the "Qvevri method". The UNESCO recognized this ancient wine making method and included it in the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
"Not to forget, Georgia is also famed for its hospitality. When tourists visit our country they come as guests, and leave as family. It is tourism and wine which have brought all of you here today - experts, specialists, professionals from more than 42 different countries. You are here as our guests, and I trust you will leave as our family, and return again soon," - Prime Minister addressed the attendees of the Conference.
The Secretary General of the UNWTO Taleb Rifai thanked Georgia for hospitality and indicated that Georgia, as an ancient homeland of wine has a great potential in terms of developing wine tourism.
The first International Wine Tourism Conference will continue till September 9 and 250 delegates from 42 countries and more than 150 organizations are taking part in the event.
Prime Minister's Press Office