Today ABA and the Student & Youth Travel Association sent a joint letter urging President Donald Trump to clarify that the United States is open for business and encourage secure foreign travel into the country.
Citing not only the economic impact of international travel to the United States, which in 2016 international visitors spent $246 billion on travel to and tourism-related activities, but also the cultural exchanges that occur with international travelers here in the United States, the two organizations support the call for the President to include a clear statement that legitimate international business and leisure travelers remain welcomed and valued by the United States.
"The American Bus Association and the Student & Youth Travel Association understand the Administration’s commitment and responsibility to increase our national security. While we support security measures, it is important for the United States to welcome student and adult travelers from all countries. The experience of travel outside one’s own immediate environment can expand a person’s understanding of people who differ from them and increase empathy for others. It is also essential to reiterate the importance of tour and travel – including foreign travel – to our national economy. ABA and SYTA ask that you reassure our friends at home and abroad that the United States is ready to accept all secure foreign travel into the country.
"ABA and SYTA support US Travel Association's message that, "However the issue plays out in the legal system, the American travel community believes the Trump administration's visa security efforts should include a clear statement that legitimate international business and leisure travelers remain welcomed and valued by the United States"."