Belize | Moving Ahead with Mexico Talks to Begin Studies to Expand the Maya Train into its Territory

Belize, a country on the north - eastern coast of Central America with Caribbean Sea shorelines to the east and a dense jungle to the west is moving ahead with Mexico talks to begin studies to expand the Maya Train into its territory. 

Mexico has expressed interest in having the tracks into Belize since before the start of the project and a Mexico Tren Maya team is heading to Belize to start expansion feasibility study.

In May, Belize Prime Minister John Briceño and Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum has a phone conversation with both sides discussing expanding market access for Belizean cattle and coconuts as well as expanding the Maya Train project.

The "Tren Maya" or Maya Train is a 1.554 km - long intercity railway in Mexico that traverses the Yucatán Peninsula and it aims to connect major cities across five states : Campeche, Chiapas, Quintana Roo, Tabasco, and Yucatán, providing a freight and passenger rail service and also focusing to exploit the greatest tourism potential and generating a notable socioeconomic development in the region.

In addition this major railway project is planned to extend its reach into Belize and Guatemala, connecting with other Mayan countries. While the core route primarily traverses through Mexico, the expansion will link the Mexican rail network with these Central American countries, a move expected to boost tourism, facilitate trade and promote regional integration within the Mayan cultural region.

This extension would add approximately 300 km of new lines, initially branching off from Chetumal, city on the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula and capital of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo and crossing the Hondo River into Belize.

Belizean authorities have confirmed that formal negotiations are set to take place between representatives of the mega - railway project and the neighbouring country’s government.

Nery Ramírez, the Executive Director of the Corozal Free Zone, the leading Belizean duty - free designated as a foreign trade catalyst and a smart business community, reported that although a date for meeting has not yet been set, the arrival of a technical team from Tren Maya and the Government are expected to conduct preliminary studies on the project’s feasibility,  to review the route and conduct the necessary analysis with a view to developing a management plan.

The official noted that the potential of rail connection would represent a significant opportunity for both the tourism sector and bilateral trade and emphasizing that the Free Zone could benefit from freight rail transportation once this mode of transport is operational.

These projects are part of a proposal promoted by Belizean Prime Minister John Briceño, who previously asked the Mexican government to consider extending the train into Belize. 

Extending the Maya Train to Belize offers numerous advantages for the Central American Country, including increased tourism, economic growth, and enhanced connectivity. The project could significantly boosts Belize’s tourism sector by attracting more visitors from Mexico and beyond and facilitating trade and business opportunities between the two countries.

In addition this extension could foster furthermore regional cooperation and integration, potentially opening up new markets for Belizean goods and services, and also creating numerous employment opportunities for Belizeans.

Link 
https://riviera-maya-news.com/mexico-tren-maya-team-heading-to-belize-to-start-expansion-feasibility-study/2025.html

Zimbabwe | Setting 2034 Targets for Ecosystem Restoration to Combat Biodiversity Loss

Government officials, scientists, and community leaders from around the world convened in Victoria Falls, a resort town and city in the province of Matabeleland in western Zimbabwe, located on the southern bank of the Zambezi River and a gateway to the massive waterfall of the same name, in July for the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting parties (COP15) on Wetlands.

The global summit resulted in 25 resolutions, and the adoption of the Victoria Falls Declaration, prioritising sustainable conservation and of wetland ecosystems.

Among the key outcomes was the fifth Strategic Plan, which aims to halt and reverse wetland loss by 2034, alongside commitments to protect migratory birds and establish a Global Waterbird Estimates Partnership.

Wetlands are disappearing at a rate three times faster than forests, posing a significant threat to global biodiversity and climate goals and the restoration efforts are crucial for achieving global biodiversity and climate targets. 

Zimbabwe’s wetlands, covering 34.96% of the country, are vital ecosystems facing significant threats from human activities and climate changes. These areas, including dambos, swamps and floodplains, provide crucial services like water filtration, flood control, and habitat for diverse wildlife, including endangered species. However they are being degraded by urban expansion, illegal settlement, and unsustainable practices.

Despite their estimated annual value of up to $39 trillion, wetlands receive only 25% of global GDP in conservation funding, and COP15 in the fifth strategic plan highlighted  and emphasized the relevance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern science, and envolving youth, indigenous peoples, women, and local communities to ensure effective and inclusive restoration efforts for wetland conservation.

With more than 411 million hectares lost since 1970 the Global Wetland Outlook calls for the wetlands conservation and Zimbabwe is actively working for that, setting 2034 targets for ecosystem restoration, with a focus on wetlands as part of global commitment made at the Global Summit in Victoria Falls. 

This includes restoring 250.000 hectares of degraded wetlands by 2030 to meet international targets and protecting critical freshwater wetlands by creating new Ramsar Wetlands of International Importance, and continuing to work according to the agenda plans.

These initiatives highlight Zimbabwe’s commitment to restoring its ecosystems and contributing to global efforts to combat biodiversity loss and climate change.

Link 
https://atta.travel/resource/global-wetlands-summit-in-zimbabwe-sets-2034-targets-for-ecosystem-restoration.html

Qatar | To Invest $4 Billion to Redevelop Damascus International Airport and Modernize Syrian Airlines

Qatar, an independent Emirate on the west coast of the Persian Gulf on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula in the Middle East whose terrain comprises arid desert, dunes and long beaches, known for its futuristic skyscerapers and other ultramodern architecture inspired by ancient Islamic design, one of the richest countries in the world because of its reserves of oil and natural gas,  through Qatar UCC Holding signed with the Syrian Arab Republic a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)  worth more than US$4 billion in foreign investment to redevelop Damascus International Airport and modernize Syrian Airlines. 

The new - five - company consortium is headed by Quatar’s UCC Holding, a Qatari - based international Energy, Concessions and Construction company, distinguished as a Grade A licensed builder that since its inception has maintained a consistent track record of profitability, supported by a diverse and thriving portfolio spanning both local and international projects, establishing a significant construction footprint in Qatar and the world.

The main task of the Qatari holding is to redevelop and expand Damascus International Airport located 30 kilometres southeast of the city in the Governate of Rif Dimashq, connected to the capital by the M5 motorway and modernize the fleet Syrian Airlines, operating as SyrianAir, the flag carrier of the country founded in 1946 and member of the alliance Arab Air’s Carriers’ Organization.

The project represents a cornerstone of the nation’s reconstruction initiatives, a pivotal milestone in a series of major developments implemented in vital sectors such as energy, reconstruction, and infrastructure and it aims at enhancing global connectivity and contributing to the growth of the Syrian economy, trade, and tourism after the civil war.

This relevant investment is one of the largest in Syria’s infrastructure in decades, it reflects the country’s drive to restore its regional and international position, representing a multifaceted effort involving political, economic and social rebuilding.  

Key aspects include addressing economic challenges, and rebuilding infrastructure, and International support is crucial as well as finding its place in the regional air market.

The project form part of a package of strategic initiatives supporting Syria’s economic recovery after frozen assets, limited access to international financing, and the impact of sanctions that restrict the flow for reconstruction and development, and is directed by the Emir of the State of Qatar.

The consortium that includes Turkish construction companies Kalyon Holding and Cengiz Holding, as well as TAV Airports, will run  a build - operate transfer venture. The latter will be executed in five successive phases. 

This includes to increase capacity to 6 million passengers in the first year, increasing to 16 million in the second phase, and ultimately reaching 31 million at fully capacity and the consolidation of Damascus Airport in the region and in the international landscape becoming one of the most modern and advanced air hubs in the Middle East.

The airport inaugurated in the mid - 1970s will integrate the highest international standards approved by the Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). 

The new airport will feature up to 32 gates equipped with modern passenger boarding bridges and a fully integrated air navigation service system. The future air terminal will integrate a world - class duty - free area housing a wide selection of international restaurant upscale cafes, and leading fashion brands. 

The project also includes the development of the main access road to the airport, stretching up  to 50 kilometres improving its connectivity. 

The new Syrian airport is expected to create more than 90.000 jobs and stimulate the national economy across multiple sectors, and enable the country to return as an active player in the regional and international aviation network.

Part of the investment is US$250 million will help financing to purchase up to 10 Airbus A320 aircraft for Syrian Airlines, aiming at enhancing the fleet and increasing the competitiveness of the national carrier that operated scheduled international services to several destinations in Asia, Europe and Africa, though the number of flights operated has seriously declined since 2011 due to the Arab Spring and subsequent Syrian war.

Chairman of UCC Holding, Mr. Mohammad Moutaz Al - Khayyat stated that this project embodies the outcome of a strategic partnership bringing together a select group of leading international companies with a unified goal : rebuilding one of Syria’s most vital facilities in  a way that reflects its future ambitions.

President and Group CEO of UCC Holding, Mr Ramez Al - Khayyat said that this project is not just about redeveloping Damascus International Airport; it is a strategic bridge carrying Syria toward a future of recovery and prosperity.

UCC Holding is investing in a sustainable development vision that enhances trade and tourism, connects Syria to the world at the highest standards, and stimulates economic growth and investment across all sectors. Leveraging Syria’s strategic location and one extensive local and regional partnerships and Damascus International Airport will become a model for advanced, smart transportation in the region. 

Link 
https://www.travelmole.com/news/qatar-fund-syria-air-transport/

Brazil | The "Plano Brasis", an Initiative to Transform the Country’s Presence in Global Tourism Launched

Brazil, the largest and most populous country in South and Latin America launched the “Plano Brasis”, the Brasis Plan, an International Tourism Marketing Plan 2025 - 2027 developed by Embratur, the Brazilian Tourist Board, a federal, state - owned agency reporting to the Brazilian Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with Sebrae, a non - profit organization supporting small businesses,  aiming to promote competitiveness and sustainable development and the Getúlio Vargas Foundation, a renowned Brazilian higher education institution and think thank. 

The objective is to strengthen the Agency's institutional mission to make Brazil recognized for its diversity and authentic and sustainable tourism experiences, contributing to an increase in the inflow of international tourists and foreign currency into the country, a milestone in rebuilding Brazil’s positioning on the global stage.

Aligned with the guidelines of the National Tourism Plan 2024 - 2027, this plan is the result of efficient and collaborative technical work, which included the participation of states, municipalities and a broad network of strategic partners, essential to ensuring that the country continues to be a prominent destination globally, seizing emerging opportunities and overcoming current challenges.

The Salão Nobre of the São Paulo Department of the Tourism and Travel hosted on 21st July represented the official launch of the "Plano Brasis 2025 – 2027" that promises to transform Brazil’s presence in global tourism. 

The presentation was led by two of the main articulators of the new project such as the Marketing Director at Embratur, Bruno Reis and the Coordinator of International Markets at Embratur, Ana Paula Jacques.

With the presence of Embratur President Marcelo Freixo, Sebrae National Competitiveness Coordinator Ana Clévia Guerreiro, and representative from São Paulo, including Visit São Paulo President Toni Sando and São Paulo State Secretary of Tourism and Travel Roberto de Lucena, the event brought together authorities and industry leaders to kick off a new cycle for Brazilian tourism.

Also in atendances were representatives from the state government, city hall, association presients and parliamentarians.

The "Plano Brasis" represents a break with old models, a new wave of modernization focusing on structured governance, market intelligence, campaign segmentation, and a direct focus on tourism flow results and revenue generation.

Marketing Director at Embratur, Bruno Reis, during his presentation emphatically explained that the plan ends the cycle of generic and improvised actions, emphasizing that this is a moment that the plan’s timeline is 2027, but with guidelines set out through 2030, based on ongoing studies of economics, geopolitics, consumer behaviour and data intelligence at the heart of the strategy.

The decision is to go solely with the data, it’s not guesswork or improvisation. It’s a national plan aligned with economic and geopolitical realities, and for the first time Brazil will have a tourism promotion plan integrated across all public spheres and the private sector with measurable objectives and a clear methodology.

According to the Marketing Director at Embratur four main axes guide the work and the strategy : 

•    Continuous and in – depth diagnosis of issuing market.
•    Competitive repositioning of the Brazil brand. 
•    Actions aimed at converting tourists, with real – time monitoring 
•    Institutional integration with states and municipalities, and strengthening of partnerships with the private sector.

Coordinator of International Markets at Embratur, Ana Paula Jacques explained that the biggest differentiator of the Brasis Plan lies in its detailed detailed segmentartion of sending countries, classifying them into four levels to treat the world in a personalized way. 

The focus is to move away from a standardized approach and develop campaigns, tourism products, and visibility initiatives tailored to each market’s profile. 

There’s no one - size - fits - all Brazil. Each country has different interests, and Embratur job is to understand these differences, and the personalization is the most efficient way to increase qualified tourist flow.

The division by levels was established as follows : 

•    Level 1 - Consolidated markets : Argentina, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay. 
•    Level 2 - Essential markets : France, Germany, Spain, Portugal, the United States and the United Kingdom.
•    Level 3 - Growth markets : Canada, Colombia, Italy, Mexico, Peru, Switzerland and the Netherlands.
•    Level 4 - Opportunity markets : Australia, Belgium, Bolivia, China, Japan and South Africa.
Each country will receive specific promotional strategies, with presence at specific events, content adaptation, and a focus on what best connects tourists with Brazil. 

The launch of the "Brasis Plano" in São Paulo was no coincidence. The city is a strategic platform for international visibility. São Paulo is the main entry point for international tourists into the country and plays a key role in connecting the public and private sectors. For Embratur President Marcelo Freixo, the city has all the conditions to be the hub for new tourism promotion strategies.

According to the Marketing Director of Embratur, Bruno Reis, São Paulo, is abosolutely strategic, both for its infrastructure and its air traffic and diversity of attractions and city helps boost the performance of national tourism. 

Brazil with this plan has ambitious goals by 2027. The "Brasis Plano" aims to relaunch the growth of international tourism in the country. The goal is to surpass 7 million international visitors by 2025 and reach 8 million by 2027, and in addition to establish a continuous and professionalized public policy guided by data, efficiency, and integration.

Based on new metrics, strategic partnerships, and campaign tailored to the real interests of each market, Embratur’s goal is to reposition Brazil as a competitive, sustainable, and modern tourist destination.  

The "Brasis Plano" in its essence emerges as a necessary evolution of the successful Aquarela Plan, Brazil’s first International Tourism Marketing Plan, launched in 2004, along with the Brazil Brand, which helped position Brazil as a prominent tourist destination over the past two decades. 

This update with the launch of this new plan considered a response to major changes in the international tourism landscape and the new demands of international travellers, and Brazil ready to face this challenge.

Links 
https://en.travel2latam.com/news-99094-embratur-launches-the-brasis-plan-in-so-paulo-with-a-focus-on-repositioning-brazil-in-global-tourism
https://embratur.com.br/para-o-trader/plano-brasis/