Tourism summit in LA promotes globalization of cities

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 19 (Xinhua) -- City mayors and representatives of tourism-related institutions agreed here Tuesday at a meeting to promote the globalization of some of the world's top tourist cities.

The tourism meeting, sponsored by the World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF), kicked off under the theme of "Impact of Globalization on World Tourism City Development," with the participation of 400 delegates from 51 countries.

Chen Jining, chairman of WTCF Council and acting mayor of Beijing, was among the several dignitaries who addressed the opening ceremony of the meeting, formally known as the Fragrant Hills Tourism Summit 2017.

Chen expressed the hope that a deeper understanding of globalization would be obtained through the insightful discussions during the summit. He also proposed promoting a more inclusive and balanced globalization in favor of strong tourism growth worldwide.

The WTCF also issued a declaration marking the gathering.

"The robust development of the world tourism industry plays an important role in leading future globalization. With its industrial chain extended to all sectors and areas in the world, the tourism industry has a strong pulling effect on global economic growth. The tourism industry is both a propeller and a beneficiary of globalization," said the declaration.

Helsinki, capital city of Finland, was chosen from three bidding cities to host the WTCF Fragrant Hills Tourism Summit 2019.

The WTCF was voluntarily formed by famous tourist cities and tourism-related institutions across the world under the initiative of Beijing.

Established in September 2012, it's the first international tourism organization focused on cities. The Fragrant Hills Tourism Summit is an important annual event of the federation.