The coastal city of Batumi, renowned for its rapid growth in both tourism and business sectors, will for the first time host the "Batumi International Tourism Forum" on September 28, 2023.

The main objective of this event is to establish a platform where discussions involving international leaders and experts in the field of tourism can take place. On one hand, the emphasis will be placed on fostering sustainable tourism development and addressing current challenges. On the other hand, a new vision will be crafted in the realm of investments, environmental conservation, emerging technologies, and innovations within the tourism sector.

The forum will provide an excellent opportunity to bring together experts in the field of tourism, representatives of the tourism sector, leading specialists, and professionals engaged in tourism activities from different countries. This offers a unique chance for countries to establish and strengthen cooperation and partnership in the realm of advancing the tourism industry.

Within the framework of the “Batumi International Tourism Forum”, discussions will take place on various issues and challenges related to sustainable tourism development. The event encompasses diverse panel sessions where participants from different countries discuss travel trends, exchange information and experiences on topics such as investments in the tourism sector, support for small and medium-sized enterprises, and projects focused on sustainable tourism development.

At the same time, the invited delegates will have the opportunity to explore the tourism potential of Ajara and experience authentic Georgian hospitality.

Program

  • Registration

    10:00-11:00

    Networking/Morning coffee

  • Official Opening of BITF 2023

    11:00-11:03

    Head of the Department of Tourism and Resort of A/R Ajara, Georgia Ms. Tinatin Zoidze

  • Welcome Opening Speech

    11:03-11:20

    • H.E. Chairman of Government of A/R of Ajara, Georgia Mr. Tornike Rijvadze
    • Vice-President of Marketing & Communications at World Travel Awards Mr. Sion Rapson

  • Video Presentation of Georgia - “STUMARI”

    11:20-11:30

  • Keynote Presentation:

    11:30-11:40

    Head of Department of Tourism and Resorts of Ajara – Ms. Tinatin Zoidze

    - Visit Batumi - Europe's Leading Four-Season Destination

  • PANEL SESSION OF BITF 2023

    11:40-12:30

  • 1. Sustainable Tourism Development and Investments in the Tourism Industry
  • 2. Marketing and Promotion Strategies and Digital Transformation
  • Moderator:

    Minister of Finance and Economy of A/R of Ajara, Georgia Mr. Jaba Phutkaradze

    Panelists:

    • CEO of Gibraltar Tourism Board - Mr. Kevin Bossino
    • Director of Dubrovnik Tourist Board - Mr. Miro Drašković
    • Founder and the CEO of EARTHPIX – Mr. Eric Damier
    • International Sales Director of EURONEWS – Mr. Kjell Stein
    • Chief Commercial O cer of Wanderlust Travel Media – Mr. Adam Lloyds
    • Editor of Emerging Europe – Mr. Craig Turp_Balazs

    Question and Answer
  • Forum Host Closing Remarks

    12:30-12:40

    Official Photo
  • Lunch

    13:00-14:30

    Restaurant ,,Pelion’’ at the Hilton Hotel

  • Optional: Free Time or Visiting Tour

    • 16:00 - 19:00 Batumi City Tour
      (15:45 Pick-up at the Hotel Lobby)
    • Or
    • 16:00 - 19:00 Tour to Batumi Botanical Garden
      (15:45 Pick-up at the Hotel Lobby)

  • Evening Reception

    20:00

    Jasmine Lounge at the Hotel Sheraton Pool Offered by the Ministry of Finance and Economy of Ajara, Georgia (by Invitation Only)

Speakers

Mr. Kevin Bossino
Mr. Kevin Bossino

CEO of Gibraltar Tourism Board

Mr. Miro Drašković
Mr. Miro Drašković

Director of Dubrovnik Tourist Board

Mr. Eric Damier
Mr. Eric Damier

Founder and the CEO of EARTHPIX

Mr. Kjell Stein
Mr. Kjell Stein

International Sales Director of EURONEWS

Mr. Adam Lloyds
Mr. Adam Lloyds

Chief Commercial Officer of Wanderlust Travel Media

Mr. Craig Turp_Balazs
Mr. Craig Turp_Balazs

Editor of Emerging Europe