In a communiqué, UN agency noted that this way they voice the concerns expressed by delegates during the 24 UNWTO General Assembly held the previous week.

The comment comes from the international alarm over the detection of a new strain of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, Omicron, which was detected for the first time in South Africa.

Countries from all regions of the world have expressed their solidarity with the Southern African States and called for the immediate lifting of travel bans imposed on certain nations, as well as for respect for the freedom of international movement, the press release said.

The highest authority on world tourism recalled recent statements by the Secretary General of the United Nations and the Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO) on the injustice and ineffectiveness of general restrictions on travel affecting Southern Africa.

These general limitations can also stigmatize affected countries or entire regions, it said.

The UNWTO pointed out that during their meeting in this capital, delegates insisted that if necessary these restrictions should be proportionate, transparent and scientifically based.

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