Global family entertainment leader Walt Disney Parks and Resorts and the Pacific Asia Travel Association have forged a new strategic partnership, both organisations announced today.

Effective immediately, Disney becomes a PATA Premier Partner, gaining exclusive access to a range of co-operative opportunities including market intelligence, business development and co-branded events and products.

Disney joins a select group of PATA Premier Partners such as Visa International, Amadeus, CNN International, TIME and Fortune.

PATA President & CEO, Mr Peter de Jong, said he was delighted to welcome such an iconic and powerful brand as Disney into the PATA community. "It really is a dream come true," he said.

"We have worked closely with Hong Kong Disneyland since its launch in September 2005, and now through this key partnership we will have the opportunity to connect with all of Disney's parks and resort destinations around the world."

Disney Destinations Senior Vice President, Sales & Distribution Marketing for the Asia Pacific Region Ms Claire Bilby, said PATA was a natural partner for Walt Disney Parks and Resorts as the company continues to promote its Hong Kong Disneyland resort destination and its Disney Parks brand throughout the dynamic Asia Pacific region.

"It is an exciting partnership for us, as our parks and resorts are poised to benefit from the huge growth in travel to, from and within the Asia Pacific region," she said. "Our new alliance with PATA ensures that we can strengthen our connections with industry and government leaders throughout the region."

Mr de Jong explained that PATA Premier Partnership is restricted to global or regional brands that are clear leaders in their domain and have a strong vested interest in Asia Pacific travel and tourism.

"Disney perfectly fits our criteria and brings enormous strength to our coterie of Premier Partners. We look forward to developing some exciting bilateral and multi-lateral programmes with Walt Disney Parks and Resorts and our other partners and members," he said.