UNWTO Signs MOU with IH&RA

UNWTO and the International Hotel and Restaurant Association (IH&RA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that aims to enhance cooperation in a number of initiatives related to the hospitality industry, including the Nearly Zero-Energy Hotels (NEZEH) Project, supporting hotels in improving their energy efficiency and reaching nearly zero energy levels.

The MOU was signed by UNWTO Secretary-General Taleb Rifai and IH&RA’s President Casimir Platzer, on the sidelines of IH&RA’s 51st Annual Congress, coinciding with the 1st World Hospitality Day.

“The hospitality industry is a fundamental part of the global tourism sector and a key vehicle for economic growth and job creation around the world. IH&RA has long been a strategic partner to UNWTO and this MOU will allow us to cooperate even closer towards our common goal of driving positive changes in tourism,” said Mr. Rifai.

Casimir Platzer, said, “This partnership agreement marks a new milestone for IH&RA and will serve as the umbrella for the potential joint cooperation between both the private and public sectors for the best interest of the hospitality industry. Our role as the world's hospitality association is further strengthened by this UNWTO endorsement.”

A trade association exclusively devoted to promoting and defending the interests of the hotel and restaurant industry worldwide, IH&RA is officially recognized by the United Nations and monitors and lobbies all international agencies on behalf of the industry.