The event was presided by Rosario Sánchez Grau, Secretary of State for Tourism, who made a case for quality tourism that is socially responsible, has an economic impact on local communities and preserves the environment. Ambassador Emma Aparici, for her part, highlighted the role of British tourism in Spain as a link and means of understanding between the two countries, and emphasized Spain's commitment to tourism that generates prosperity and preserves our cultural and natural heritage. In 2025, 19 million British tourists visited Spain, once again making the United Kingdom our most important tourist market.
This event of Spain Talks, which included representatives from Andalusia and Gran Canaria, focused on the sustainability of tourism. Three panels were present, addressing responsible tourism and the impact of public policies and artificial intelligence.
Finally, the Wanderlust Award was presented to Amancio López Seijas, President and CEO of the HOTUSA Group, in recognition of HOTUSA's commitment to sustainable tourism. The Spain Talks Awards were also presented to Amanda O'Brien, Emma Donney, Fiona Dunlop, Eddi Fiegel, and Norman Miller for their contributions to promoting tourism in Spain in the UK through media.