Harry Theoharis, the former Greek Minister of Tourism, was part of the “Lazer-focused dream team” Saudi Arabia put together last year under the leadership of HE Gloria Guevara as a tourism solution for climate change.
As predicted by eTurboNews, the current UN Tourism Secretary Zurab Pololikashvili’s support for a third candidacy seems to have ended for European Union countries.
Today, October 29, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis of Greece announced his decision to nominate the former minister of tourism for Greece, Harry Theoharis, as a candidate for the Secretary-General of the UN Tourism (UNWTO) position. This was announced in a media release today. Mr. Theoharis is a member of the New Democratic Party in Greece and a member of parliament.
In the announcement, Government Spokesperson Mr. Marinakis stated, “The Prime Minister met today with Mr. Harry Theoharis, proposing him as Greece’s candidate for the position of Secretary-General of the UNWTO. This role will enable Greece to actively shape international tourism policy and further enhance our country’s global image, promote Greek tourism, and forge strategic alliances.”
In response, Mr. Harry Theoharis, former Minister of Tourism and New Democracy MP, expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister, noting, “Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’s decision to nominate me for Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization is both a tremendous honor and a profound responsibility.
This candidacy reflects Greece’s strong standing in the global tourism community. Our country, a leader in tourism development, has rightfully earned the respect and recognition of the international community as a distinguished destination, combining authentic hospitality with modern, sustainable practices.
During the challenging pandemic years, Greece not only stood resilient but also led by example, demonstrating successful crisis management on a global scale. “I consider it an incredible personal honor to have served my country as Minister of Tourism during one of the most challenging periods the industry has ever faced. “
Through hard work and unity, we transformed a crisis into an opportunity for Greece. Against all odds, we reopened tourism with exemplary safety protocols, welcoming millions of visitors while safeguarding the health of tourists, employees, and residents.”
“The position of UN Tourism Secretary-General holds great significance for Greece and its standing in the global tourism market. It opens the door to further strengthening our international profile, promoting the values of Greek tourism, and establishing strategic alliances. Additionally, it allows Greece to play an active role in shaping international tourism policy.”
“Today, in a time of significant challenges—including climate change, the green transition, over-tourism, and evolving geopolitical dynamics—it is essential that the UNWTO responds to the demands of our era with seriousness and effectiveness. And, of course, the role of tourism in Greece is undeniable. Its impact reaches beyond our economy, influencing our social life, culture, and much more.”
“It is therefore vital for Greece to be at the center of these developments, at the helm of this global organization. I call on the Greek tourism community, with whom we have worked successfully and unitedly under difficult circumstances, to support this national effort. We move forward together, for this campaign is, above all, a campaign for Greece.”
“Alongside this endeavor, I will continue to fulfill my parliamentary duties as a representative of the Southern Sector of Athens and dedicate myself to supporting the government’s work.
Finally, I extend my sincere thanks once again to the Prime Minister for this honor. Should I be elected as Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization, I pledge to live up to his trust and to the responsibilities that this role entails.”
World Tourism Network Chairman Juergen Steinmetz, who is also the publisher of eTurboNews and worked with The Sustainable Tourism Global Center (STGC) in Saudi Arabia, Theoharis was a part of congratulated Mr. Theoharis for stepping up to move UN Tourism into a better place. He said: “It’s critical for UN-Tourism and the global tourism world to have an urgently needed change in leadership.”
According to eTurboNews information, more candidates may step up to stop the current head of UN Tourism to run for a third term.