As 2020 draws to a close, I am struck, to say the least, by what an unusual and unsettling year it’s been. It’s certainly been challenging for all of us in many ways, both personally and professionally, but with vaccines already being distributed and more on the way, I remain optimistic for a measured return in 2021.
I am excited about the important advocacy work that we are doing both in Brussels and Washington and thank Grayling Public Affairs for their excellent work in supporting our European advocacy programme. As I have said before, we are advocating tirelessly for a safe and responsible return to travel on an internationally co-ordinated basis. Don’t forget, you can help by getting involved in our Ready.Safe.Travel. campaign (#readysafetravel) and raising the profile of the importance of our industry.
A huge thank you to the European committees and volunteers who supported us in the development of the GBTA Collaboratory, a truly excellent body of content that concluded with Technology Week. I would also like to thank those who have supported us on the Europe Town Halls and other Europe specific webinars. The GBTA France and GBTA Italy Advisory Boards deserve special mention for their outstanding work in delivering the GBTA Italy week and GBTA France e-Masterclass in November, as well as many other webinars addressing important industry topics.
As I mentioned last month we are expanding our European committees with the launch of a Payment Solutions Committee. If you think you can help and would like to be involved you can apply using this form.
Please mark your calendars for the first GBTA Europe Town Hall of 2021, to be held on 14 January at 1400 GMT, and don’t forget, there is also a wealth of resources on the GBTA website in the Coronavirus News and Resources section.
Finally, I would also like to thank members of the European Advisory Board for their support as we set the course for GBTA Europe for 2021 and beyond. What has been so evident is how this industry has come together, as it always does, and it is this that reminds me that the challenges of today are tomorrow’s opportunity!
I wish you all the best and hope you're able to have valuable time (even if remotely) with your loved ones this holiday season and here's' to a restful and restorative Christmas and a happy and healthy 2021.
With warmest regards
Mark Cuschieri
Chair – Europe Advisory Board
GBTA
