South Asia, Central Asia and Eastern Europe regions are facing similar threats, challenges and having similar opportunities in the field of tourism operations, planning and practices. Agendas of governments are sometime contrary to needs and demands of tourism industry. In South Asia, governments of Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Afghanistan have different political and diplomatic conflicts and this is the lead reason that South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) has failed to establish interaction and strong networking in the field of tourism. There are also certain conflicts among Central Asian republics and also in Eastern Europe countries. Therefore chances of a solid networking and connection among tourism ministries of these countries is more myth than reality.

With rich local cultural, natural and historical heritage, West Africa has a great potential to develop its tourism industry to become a leading destination in the World, and what better way than to use a concept that benefits local communities and helps use the local heritage in a sustainable way.

European Ecotourism Conference 2010 will be held 27-29 September in Pärnu Estonia. If you are considering to participate - join this group! If not planning to be there, join for conversation on the isssues of conference.