Opening Report ITB Berlin 2012 : taking the political pulse of the industry
The 46th ITB Berlin, which takes place from 7 to 11 March 2012, is a more political event than ever before: the European debt crisis, turmoil in the Arab countries, climate protection and sustainability, as well as EU emissions trading. All these topics will be discussed at the ITB Convention by leading figures from the travel industry. The UNWTO Silk Road Minister's Summit is taking place for the second time at the world's leading trade fair for the international travel industry. The official partner country of ITB Berlin in 2012 is Egypt.
Dr. Christian Goke, Chief Operating Officer of Messe Berlin: At the start of the ITB Berlin Convention Hans-Werner Sinn, President of the Munich-based ifo Institute, will be analysing economic developments in Europe and around the world. The future development of tourism in Arab countries will be discussed by the tourism ministers of Egypt, Morocco and Jordan in conversations with political and business representatives. Safety and sustainability in the cruise industry is the subject being dealt with by the CEO Cruise Panel. ITB Berlin leads the field not only in terms of its exhibitor portfolio but also as a platform for the dissemination of knowledge.