Qatar prepares to host the tourism industry event of 2004

Preparations are underway in Qatar for the world's most important tourism industry event of the year, the World Travel and Tourism Council's Fourth Global Travel and Tourism Summit, which will be held in Doha from May 1-3.

Workers are now erecting up to 400 street banners along Doha's picturesque waterfront Corniche to form a welcome boulevard for 500 of the most influential people in the travel industry, 30 world government ministers and an international press corp of 150 journalists.

Qatar Airways the national carrier of Qatar, is hosting the Summit.

"We're expecting to host some of the most influential people in the tourism industry, along with ministers from more than 30 countries and a very large international media contingent," said Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Mr Akbar Al Baker.

"The world tourism industry is looking at ways to sustain future growth, particularly given the events of recent years, and will be looking to get a level of consensus on a roadmap for the future.

"The issues that will be placed under the microscope at the Summit include world health issues, industry investment trends and forecasts, media influence, changing behaviours of consumers, new styles of business management and specific initiatives in India and China.

"The eyes of the world will be on Doha to see what future directions the world travel industry will take.

"Qatar will be using this opportunity to promote its tourism treasures and opportunities to some the key leaders in the tourism industry.

"The fact that the Word Travel and Tourism Council selected Doha as the host of the Fourth Global Summit reflects the high quality conferencing, business and leisure facilities that Qatar offers.

"I would expect other companies to take the same opportunity to use the Summit to network with the industry captains," said Mr Al Baker.