Ireland Welcomes South Africa’s Leadership at G20 Tourism Ministers' Meeting

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke, has reiterated Ireland's gratitude to the South African G20 Presidency for the invitation to be a guest country at G20 2025 -- the first time Ireland has had a seat at this international forum comprising both developing and developed nations.

In his intervention and the G20 Tourism Ministers' Meeting at South Africa's picturesque Kruger National Park, Minister Burke said: "Through its leadership, South Africa has used this global platform to elevate the development priorities of the Global South and to promote a more inclusive and equitable path forward.

South Africa’s G20 Presidency marks a pivotal moment, guided by the compelling theme of ‘Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability’—a vision that resonates deeply with Ireland.

By placing a strong focus on Driving Tourism for Inclusive Growth, Minister Burke said, "This Presidency has rightly acknowledged the vital socio-economic role of tourism, especially in building resilient communities and sustainable economies."

Our setting today—Kruger National Park—is a powerful symbol of that vision in action: where conservation and tourism work hand in hand to protect biodiversity while sustaining livelihoods through eco-tourism.

He added that the 2025 G20 Tourism priorities under South African leadership reflect an insightful and progressive approach to leveraging tourism as a driver of sustainable development. The Minister also praised the Tourism Working Group for their commitment to priorities aligned with global goals of equity, resilience, and innovation.

Clear commitment to meaningful progress

Minister Burke said the deliverables associated with each priority reflect a "clear commitment to meaningful progress." Taken together, he added, they demonstrate a shared vision:

Tourism, when strategically harnessed, can be a powerful engine for job creation, environmental stewardship, and inclusive growth.

Ireland's Tourism Minister commended the South African G20 Presidency for its strong leadership and thoughtful stewardship of the Tourism Working Group.

"Ireland looks forward to continued collaboration as we work together to shape a more inclusive and sustainable future for global tourism."