The TULU 2024 World Indigenous Tourism Summit (WITS) commenced today (April 16) at the Kaohsiung Exhibition Center. Approximately 600 participants from 27 countries and regions attended, making it the largest and most populous international event for indigenous peoples to date, with the highest number of participating countries in the history of such summits. Vice Premier of the Executive Yuan, Cheng Wen-tsan, Mayor of Kaohsiung City, Chen Chi-mai, and Minister Icyang Parod of the Council of Indigenous Peoples delivered speeches at the opening ceremony. Ministers from three countries, deputy ministers from two countries, and 24 heads of domestic indigenous administrative agencies were also in attendance.

Under the theme of "Sustainable Tourism of Culture and Ecology," this summit aims to implement the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and "Responsible Travel." Representatives from various sectors worldwide will explore how to guide and interpret local perspectives through cultural and natural ecology, while sharing the economic benefits of tourism to promote the sustainable development of indigenous tourism.

Vice Premier Cheng expressed that while Taiwan boasts renowned attractions such as Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, and Taipei 101, its distinctive indigenous cultures, represented by 16 indigenous groups, are even more remarkable so the government places great importance on this opportunity to showcase Taiwan to the world. Moreover, the government fully sponsored the registration fees for all attendees, hoping that through this summit, more international friends will come to know and appreciate Taiwan.

Minister Icyang Parod delivered speeches throughout the day in Amis, with simultaneous interpretation provided in English and Mandarin. With the assistance of technology, language is no longer a barrier. Minister Icyang explained that the summit was named "TULU" because in the languages of 13 tribes among the 16 indigenous groups in Taiwan, the pronunciation of the number "three" sounds similar to "TULU." Many Austronesian-speaking countries, such as New Zealand, Guam, Tuvalu, and the Philippines, share similar pronunciations. This is the third summit and symbolizes Taiwan's connection with the world. The summit includes two keynote speeches, four forum topics, and six group discussions. Starting from the afternoon of April 18, international participants will be divided into three groups to visit indigenous tribes, allowing them to experience the beauty of Taiwan's indigenous culture and natural ecology.

The World Indigenous Tourism Summit is initiated by the World Indigenous Tourism Alliance (WINTA) to promote indigenous tourism led by indigenous peoples. The first summit was held in New Zealand with around 300 participants from 20 countries, while the second was held in Australia with approximately 650 participants from 19 countries. The third summit, hosted by Taiwan, aims to connect with the world, deepen dialogue and cooperation between countries, and promote the vibrant development of indigenous tourism on a global scale.