Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat engaged in a series of high-level bilateral discussions with tourism ministers from Brazil, Spain, and Saudi Arabia, focusing on enhancing tourism cooperation and fostering people-to-people connections. The talks took place on the sidelines of the G20 Tourism Ministerial Conference, hosted by Brazil, where tourism leaders gathered to discuss global initiatives.
In a productive meeting with Brazilian Tourism Minister Celso Sabino on September 20, Shekhawat discussed strategies to boost tourism between the two nations. “Glad to have concluded a productive bilateral meeting with Brazil. Discussion was held about prospects to boost tourism between our nations, including a joint cooperation agreement, visa on arrival, free visa facilities, and enhanced air connectivity with direct flights,” Shekhawat shared on the social media platform X, along with photos of the meeting.
He emphasized the potential benefits of these initiatives, noting, “These initiatives will not only strengthen our economic ties but also foster cultural exchange and people-to-people connections. Looking forward to implementing these measures and welcoming more Brazilian visitors to India!”
In addition to Brazil, Shekhawat held bilateral talks with Spain’s Tourism Minister Jordi Hereu, where they explored opportunities to increase direct connectivity and promote tourism through trade fairs and cultural exchanges. “Had a fruitful discussion on enhancing tourism ties between our countries through direct connectivity, tourism trade fairs & people-to-people exchange. Looking forward to interesting opportunities ahead,” Shekhawat shared.
Shekhawat also met with Saudi Arabian officials to discuss mutual tourism opportunities and how the two countries could benefit from increased collaboration in the sector.
A significant highlight of Shekhawat’s visit was his participation in a World Travel and Tourism Council-organized discussion at the G20 conference. He stressed the importance of public-private sector collaboration to drive sustainable tourism, promote cultural exchange, and preserve heritage. “Spoke of the need for collaboration between public & private sectors to drive sustainable tourism, promote cultural exchange & preserve heritage fostering growth & development,” he said in another social media post.
The Indian tourism minister’s efforts extended beyond Latin America and Europe, with discussions held with Czech Republic’s Deputy Prime Minister for Digitization and Minister of Regional Development, Ivan Bartoš. They focused on eco-friendly travel, cultural exchange, and innovative infrastructure. “Boosting tourism ties with Czech Republic! Pleasure meeting to discuss eco-friendly travel, cultural exchange & innovative infrastructure in our countries and cooperative mechanisms to facilitate greater tourist interactions between the two,” Shekhawat said.
In a separate bilateral meeting with Singapore’s Minister of State for Trade and Industry, Alvin Tan Sheng Hui, Shekhawat discussed sustainability in tourism, cultural exchange, and infrastructure development. “Tourism that helps the world grow, together & sustainably! Pleased to have had a meeting with Mr. Tan. Our discussions explored bilateral tourism cooperation, focusing on sustainability, cultural exchange & infrastructure development,” he noted.
Shekhawat’s visit to Brazil, and his engagement in these high-level discussions, reflects India’s commitment to fostering stronger global partnerships in tourism while promoting sustainable growth and cultural exchange. The meetings at the G20 Tourism Ministerial Conference have laid the groundwork for deeper cooperation between India and several key global tourism markets.