Dr. Brown, who is also Minister of Tourism, has accepted an invitation to speak at the second World Tourism Marketing Summit, which takes place in Beijing on October 28. The Bermuda Government is also sponsoring the event, although cost details of the sponsorship package were not revealed.

The summit has been organised by Canada-based World Trade University Global Secretariat (WTU) and this year is being hosted by the Beijing Tourism Administration. It is expected to bring together more than 400 travel and tourism industry leaders from more than 50 countries.

WTU president Sujit Chowdhury said: "The Premier will bring to the summit the outstanding leadership and creative thinking that he has already brought not only to Bermuda's tourism strategy, but also to the Caribbean region as a whole."

Organisers believe the meeting will enable delegates to "network, explore joint ventures and learn from the brightest how to develop strategies to enhance co-operation between the international business community and one of the world's largest tourist markets".

Dr. Brown said: "We view Bermuda's support of the World Tourism Marketing Summit in China as a natural part of our tourism objectives and strategy, keeping up with the rapidly and radically changing travel industry.

"Many of these changes are driven by a more mature, experienced and demanding consumer. Now, more than ever, it is essential that our marketing, advertising and product development teams obtain the knowledge and in-depth analysis of what travellers truly desire.

"I am confident that the summit in Beijing, with its high-level speakers and experts from around the globe, will provide the Bermuda delegation an opportunity to glean new ideas for expanding our tourism reach and explore new joint venture opportunities."