Sunil Kumar R, President of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), has been re-elected as Global President of the United Federation of Travel Agents’ Associations (UFTAA) for the 2025–2026 term. His re-election comes at a significant moment, as UFTAA prepares to celebrate its Diamond Jubilee in 2026, marking 60 years since its founding in 1966.
UFTAA, headquartered in Monaco, is an international confederation representing travel agents and the tourism industry worldwide. It aims to unify travel agencies, promote sustainable tourism, and advocate for the industry’s interests on a global scale. The association also offers extensive networking opportunities for stakeholders across the industry.
At the Annual General Assembly held on 27th March 2025, Sunil Kumar was elected to continue his leadership, representing India through TAAI. The newly elected UFTAA Board comprises members from eleven countries, reflecting its truly global representation. The new board members are:
- Yossi Fatael – Vice President, Aviation & IATA Matters (Israel)
- Cetin Gurcun – Vice President, Tourism (Turkey)
- William D’Souza – Vice President, Finance (Canada)
- Varsha Ramchurn – Director (Mauritius)
- Dr. Joseph Kithitu – Director (Kenya)
- Duminda Kuruwitaarchchi – Director (Sri Lanka)
- Joe Borg Oliver – Director (Malta)
- Mariegel Manotok – Director (Philippines)
- Moustafa Khataw – Director (Tanzania)
- Bernard Borry – Director (Switzerland)
The year 2026 will be a landmark year for UFTAA, and the new Board will be actively planning celebrations for the Diamond Jubilee along with launching new initiatives and expansion programs aimed at strengthening the global travel and tourism industry.