National Tourism Year invites visitors to discover southern land

This year's event aims to popularise cultural and natural beauty along with the unique features of Phu Quoc, dubbed the "Pearl Island", and the Mekong Delta.The opening ceremony on the island in Kien Giang province was attended by culture and tourism officials from Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines, along with representatives of international organisations in Vietnam.

In his speech, Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam said tourism had developed over the three decades of "doi moi" (reform) and contributed to the country's growth, helped boost other sectors and fostered cultural exchange and cooperation with other nations.The tourism industry in Vietnam has potential due to the diversity of natural landscapes and rich culture in the nation, he said.Kien Giang and 12 other Mekong Delta localities should develop the marine and island tourism sectors. Phu Quoc Island should become a national and international tourism hub to help drive local development, he added.A fireworks display wrapped up the opening ceremony of National Tourism Year 2016.

(Source: VNA)