The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss the growing importance of tourism in the global economy. Tourism may enhance the welfare of people and protect natural and culture heritage – these are the goals of UNESCO’s support to manage tourism efficiently, responsibly and sustainably, with local communities, based on the local context and the needs of all countries. Irina Bokova praised the efforts of Bulgaria in this respect, and to become a global focus as a tourist destination. She drew attention to the potential for more dynamic cooperation in the preservation of World Heritage sites in Bulgaria through sustainable tourism projects.