KINGSTON, JAMAICA – The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) has recognized Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, the Honorable Edmund Bartlett for his exceptional leadership and transformative contributions to Caribbean tourism development.
“It is truly humbling that the CTO has recognized my contributions to regional tourism, but it also highlights that we can do more together as a block. There is much more to do to increase airlift, arrivals and earnings through collaboration and I am committed to working with all our stakeholders to achieve this,” said Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett.
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The award, which was presented at the Jamaica Tourist Board’s 70th Anniversary celebration in New York on Wednesday, June 4, recognized Minister Bartlett’s visionary approach to regional tourism cooperation, his innovative strategies for building tourism resilience, and his unwavering commitment to positioning the Caribbean as the world’s premier tropical destination.
Speaking on behalf of the CTO, Chairman and Minister of Tourism for Barbados, Hon Ian Gooding-Edghill highlighted that Minister Bartlett has been a driving force behind the Caribbean’s remarkable tourism recovery and growth and regional collaboration.
Under Minister Bartlett’s leadership, Jamaica not only recovered but saw growth following the COVID-19 pandemic, welcoming 4.3 million visitors in 2024 and generating approximately US$4.35 billion in tourism earnings. His strategic initiatives have not only transformed Jamaica’s tourism landscape but have also served as a blueprint for regional development.
“This award belongs not just to Jamaica, but to all our Caribbean partners who have worked tirelessly to build a stronger, more resilient tourism industry. Together, we have shown that collaboration, innovation, and shared vision can overcome any challenge,” added Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett.
