Member of the Municipal Council of Pistoia and the NAT Commission in the CoR, Lorenzo Galligani, joined the session on “International Cooperation for Smart & Sustainable Cultural Tourism,” sharing key insights on developing collaborative and sustainable tourism strategies across Europe. Mr Galligani took the occasion to speak about the challenges confronting rural territories especially when it comes to striking a balance between the economic benefits of tourism and the integrity of their natural and cultural assets.

"As tourists head to these areas in search of authenticity and peace, there is a risk of over-commercialisation and environmental degradation, threatening the very essence that draws them in the first place", he stated.

Mr Galligani also presented the NAT Commission's latest report on “Tourism and Rural Development,” which explores the role of tourism in supporting rural areas and how to access funding to drive these initiatives.