The international seminar titled “High-Quality Development of the Culture and Tourism Industry through Digital Empowerment,” organized by the University of Science and Technology in Suzhou, China, began with opening speeches by the university’s vice-chancellor and professors from the Faculty of Tourism.
The seminar is being held on the Suzhou University of Science and Technology campus and will continue until November 5th. It brings together 44 participants from countries including Nigeria, Uganda, South Africa, Gabon, Ethiopia, Jordan, Iraq, Egypt, Cambodia, and Sierra Leone.
Fethiye Municipality was the only institution from Turkey invited to participate, with all expenses covered by the Chinese Ministry of Commerce and Suzhou University of Science and Technology. The municipality is represented by unit managers Tahir Başaran and Mehmet Kavruk, along with presidential advisor Yavuz Topateş.
Delivering the opening address on behalf of all participants at the request of the organizing committee, Yavuz Topateş said:
“Today, tourism worldwide is no longer merely an economic activity that generates foreign currency. It also plays a critical role in many areas, such as strengthening intercultural communication, building friendships between nations, creating employment, developing infrastructure, and preserving cultural heritage.
The tourism sector brings societies closer together, supports cultural diversity, and is a key component of sustainable development. With its structure that promotes local development, creates employment, and preserves cultural heritage, tourism has become an indispensable part of social life. In today’s world, digitalization plays a pivotal role in the transformation of tourism. Smart technologies, data analytics, artificial intelligence, and digital marketing not only improve service quality but also make the visitor experience more effective and accessible.”
The seminar series, which will conclude on November 5th, will feature a range of presentations by Chinese academics on tourism and the digital age.
Huzhou After Suzhou
Following their participation in Suzhou, the Fethiye Municipality delegation—visiting China as official guests—will travel to Huzhou, with which the Fethiye Municipal Council recently approved a sister city agreement.
During meetings with Huzhou Municipality officials, both sides will discuss technical details and future cooperation projects.
Thank you to Yavuz Topateş for the update and photographs.
