The Global Travel & Tourism Summit to be inaugurated by the President of India, Shri APJ Abdul Kalam is being jointly hosted by the Government of India.

The Global Travel & Tourism Summit is the platform for world leaders of the Travel & Tourism industry, senior government official and the media, to discuss fundamental challenges and opportunities affecting all sectors of the industry, worldwide. It revolves around a series of highly interactive discussions moderated by internationally recognized journalists and TV presenters. This year presenters will include leading international correspondents from BBC World, Newsweek and the Wall Street Journal.

Under the theme 'Realizing the Potential' industry leaders at the Summit in 2005 will focus on ways in which businesses, regions, countries and local communities can unlock the full social and economic potential of the industry.

WTTC research shows that by 2014, Travel & Tourism could generate 10.9 per cent Gross Domestic Product and some 260 million jobs, representing 8.6 per cent of total employment worldwide.

There is a growing consciousness that Travel & Tourism is not just a nice to have but a need to have activity in our global economy and community. However, many destinations and organizations are failing to let loose the true potential of the industry.

Leaders are lining up to join our frank discussions at the 5th Global Travel & Tourism Summit and to play a role in shaping the future of our industry. Some of our confirmed speakers are listed below.

Leaders speaking at the Summit will include Smt Renuka Chowdhury, Minister of Tourism India, Bill Marriott, Chairman & CEO, Marriott International Inc, Marilyn Carlson Nelson, Chairman & CEO, Carlson Companies and Barry Sternlicht, Chairman & CEO, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. Eminent Government and Political dignitaries from national and international arena will grace the occasion as Speakers and special invitees.

The full list of leaders participating in the 5th Global Travel & Tourism Summit and the programme can be viewed, as it develops on www.globaltraveltourism.com.