MANAMA — Bahrain has presented the nomination of Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, president of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, for the post of secretary-general of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

Bahrain's nomination of Shaikha Mai reflects her numerous achievements in sustainable tourism and in strengthening the relationship between tourism and culture in order to achieve prosperity and development in various countries.

Her proven leadership and managerial abilities, vast experience in cultural matters and international relations, and strong diplomatic and communication skills have made her stand out.

In 2017, and in recognition of her outstanding efforts, UNWTO appointed her special ambassador of the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development.

Under her guidance, Bahrain has achieved several projects that have contributed to stimulating urban development, providing job opportunities, and attracting investors and visitors.

Bahrain invested in cultural infrastructure and made it a tributary for the cultural tourism industry that reflects the current trends of the international community and the United Nations. Bahrain received international recognition, awards, and several titles that contributed to consolidating the country's status among global cultural and tourism centers.

Shaikha Mai's candidacy for the position of UNTWO secretary-general comes as the tourism sector is going through major difficulties caused by the outbreak of the coronavirus that has left tremendous effects on the aviation and hospitality industry. UNTWO is expected to lead global efforts for the recovery of the sector.

Shaikha Mai is a pioneering figure in the Arab cultural scene through her work in the fields of culture and arts.

Since 2008, she has held several official positions, including Assistant Undersecretary for Culture and National Heritage (2002-2004) and (2005-2008), Minister of Culture and Information (2008-2010), and Minister of Culture (2010-2015).

She is currently the President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities and Chair of the Board of Directors of the Arab Regional Center for World Heritage (ARC-WH).

Shaikha Mai is the founder and chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Shaikh Ibrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Center for Culture and Research, a non-profit and non-governmental center that aims to promote culture and preserve Bahrain's urban heritage established in 2002. — Bahrain News Agency