[Full text version of Ms Pansy Ho, Vice Chariman and Secretary-General of GTEF's open letter above]

Dear GTEF Family,

This year has begun with unprecedented global challenges. Supporting and sustaining the tourism sector during the COVID-19 outbreak is on all our minds. During this difficult time, I would like to reaffirm that GTEF stands in solidarity with its Partner Country, Italy, and the international community.

If the travel and tourism economy have taught us anything, it is that we are all connected. As we consider the future of our sector, it is more important than ever to embrace our shared appreciation of culture, exploration, and community. It is in this spirit that we press forward with our plan to hold GTEF 2020 in Macao in the 4th quarter of this year. We will continue to liaise with local authorities to monitor the situation in a measured and responsible manner and will announce the official date shortly.

GTEF 2020 is committed to serving as a platform for international collaboration and solidarity, one that champions the sustainable development of global tourism. As such, GTEF 2020 will highlight policy implementations and best practices that the international community can learn from, share, and adopt as we overcome this newest challenge together.

I look forward to seeing you all in in Macao as we work together to create a positive outcome for the future.