Ambika Soni and CNTA Chairman inaugurates CNT office

New Delhi, Aug 20 (UNI) Union Tourism and Culture Minister Ambika Soni and China National Tourism Administration Chairman Shao Quwei jointly inaugurated the China National Tourist Office here today.

Ms Soni assured all necessary support to the CNT office, which conforms to the 'Action Plan' adopted by both the two nations as part of the 'India-China Year of Friendship Through Tourism' launched in February this year.

The Minister said it was an important contribution to the Asian region as an UNWTO survey has revealed that 78 per cent of outbound traffic from Asia is within the region itself.

She said the Beijing Olympics next year is a major event for China. Massive infrastructure has been created and Chinese people are working round the clock to make it a success. India is also gearing itself to hosting the Commonwealth Games in 2010.

She said said these mega events have enormous tourist value, both during and after the events. ''We need to share our experiences and learn from each other,'' she added.

Mr Shao said the opening of the Tourist Office in India will further promote bilateral relations, adding that the upcoming Olympics and World Expo in Shanghai will greet tourists from India.

Earlier, the India-China Tourism Forum met to exchange information for future cooperation in the tourism sector between the two countries. Ms Soni and Mr Shao also held a brief meeting to discuss ways to further promotion of bilateral relations in tourism sector, which was attended by more than 120 delegates from both nations.

A series of events will be held in New Delhi and Mumbai during the stay of the Delegation in India, which include China Tourism Night in New Delhi and Mumbai. Over 200 travel industry representatives in each place have been invited to meet with their Chinese Counterpart and explore business opportunities with them.

UNI