China, Iran to sign MoU on expansion of tourism cooperation
By Satish G. | eTN Asia
Iran and China have prepared a draft memorandum of understanding on expansion of tourism cooperation and the two countries are set to agree upon the same in the near future.
"We strive the MoU will be signed by the two sides' officials during a ceremony to be held in Tehran or Beijing," said Iran's Charge d'Affaires to Beijing Farhad Assadi. "Chinese tourists can exchange the highest number of messages of friendship between the two nations and governments."
It is being said that Chinese people are interested in the Iranian culture and civilization, adding that Chinese academicians and intellectuals are also willing to have more information about Iran's political and social system.
Iran intends to hold a big conference within the next few months on its tourism industry and attractions after the sides sign the MoU.
The development comes at a stage when the number of tourists visiting Iran is being tipped to reach 20 million by end of the fourth five-year Economic Development Plan (2005-2010).
Deputy Head of the Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization for cultural and communications affairs Ali-Reza Sajjadpour conveyed to told a group of officials in charge of tourism that Iran's tourist revenues are set to reach $15 billion during the period. "A global will is at work to tour the vast Asian continent and Iran is also a mysterious country in the continent," said Sajjadpour.
July 31, 2006
Posted in: China