The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has announced former Spanish Prime Minister José María Aznar and US Tourism Minister Ambassador Nick Adams as speakers at its 26th Global Summit in Valletta, Malta, from October 7–9, 2026.

The summit, themed “FUTU[RE]SET”, will bring together more than 1,000 delegates from over 100 countries, including 200 Travel & Tourism CEOs, senior executives and government leaders.

Discussions will focus on geopolitical change, competitiveness, investment, technology, connectivity and the evolving traveller.

Adams, the United States’ first Tourism Minister, said: “Tourism is diplomacy with a suitcase. I’m proud to bring America’s voice to Valletta and help lead the partnerships that will define the next decade of travel.”

WTTC President and CEO Gloria Guevara said the speakers would bring valuable perspectives to discussions on leadership, collaboration and investment.

“We are delighted to welcome two leaders of such distinction to our Global Summit in Malta. José María Aznar brings decades of experience at the highest level of government, while Ambassador Nick Adams represents a new era of U.S. leadership in Travel & Tourism. Their perspectives will add tremendous value to the global conversation taking place in Valletta.

FUTU[RE]SET is about looking beyond today and asking what leadership, collaboration and investment are needed to build the future of our sector.

Bringing political and business leaders together in Malta gives us a unique opportunity to challenge conventional thinking, share ideas and turn ambition into action.”

The event will also highlight Malta’s tourism, heritage, hospitality and connectivity while strengthening dialogue between governments and the private sector on sustainable growth and innovation. -TradeArabia News Service