Speaking at the opening ceremony via video link, Natalia Bayona, executive director of the United Nations Tourism Organization, said cooperation between UN Tourism and the IMTA demonstrates tourism's role in protecting mountain ecosystems, supporting local economies and improving livelihoods.

She described Shennongjia as "an inspiring example", where nature conservation and community empowerment advance hand-in-hand.

The International Mountain Tourism Day initiative was launched by the IMTA in 2018. Since 2019, related events have been held in countries including China, Nepal, Laos, France and Spain, serving as a platform for international exchanges and cooperation on sustainable mountain tourism.