Welcome

As host of the 11th Global Forum on Tourism Statistics, I would like to welcome you to the 2012 Forum.

The meeting will take place in the new HARPA concert hall and conference centre at the harbour in downtown Reykjavík, Iceland, from 14 to 16 November. The event is organised in partnership with the OECD and Eurostat and is co-hosted by Statistics Iceland, the Iceland Tourist Board, and the Icelandic Tourism Research Centre.

We believe that tourism statistics create the foundation for further development of quality tourism in Iceland and around the world. In recognition of this important role, the ministry is happy to host the 11th Global Forum on Tourism Statistics.

The Forum offers delegates an opportunity to keep abreast of the most relevant work and knowledge in the field, share experiences and best practise from all over the world, and discuss topics of significance for the development of tourism statistics in coming years.

We hope that all participants will make the most of their stay in Iceland and enjoy our beautiful country's rich culture, intriguing heritage, and fascinating tourist attractions to the fullest.

We are happy to invite delegates to enjoy the unique experience of an Icelandic winter, the Northern Lights, and our wonderful capital, Reykjavík, and I sincerely hope delegates will take time for an excursion before or after the event.

We look forward to seeing you in Iceland next November.

Sincerely,

Steingrímur J. Sigfússon

Minister of Industries and Innovation