The two-day long BRICS Convention on Tourism was inaugurated today in Khajuraho Madhya Pradesh. The BRICS nations were represented by the Minister of Tourism, South Africa Mr. D.A. Hanekom and delegations from Russia and China. The inaugural function was also graced by Tourism Minister and Chairman-Tourism, Government of Madhya Pradesh Shri Surendra Patwa.
Secretary (Tourism), Government of India Shri Vinod Zutshi welcomed all the delegates, senior dignitaries, officials and members of the travel trade. He stressed about the importance of the tourism sector as a major catalyst for economic growth and a source of job creation, thus contributing to the economy. He welcomed the cooperation extended by all the BRIGS nations for mutual growth of tourism between the member countries.
The Minister of Tourism, South Africa expressed his great pleasure for holding the BRICS Convention on Tourism in the historic temple town of Khajuraho and highlighted that India with a long tradition, history, ancient civilization and culture with a large number of World Heritage Sites like Khajuraho is destination to be visited again and again. He also proposed constituting a permanent BRIGS Working Stream on Tourism comprising of the stakeholders of the Government and private sector.
Heads of the delegation of China and Russia also emphasized greater cooperation among the member countries for the mutual benefit for the growth of tourism and looked at the convention as a platform to interact with the travel industry partners.
Tourism Minister of Madhya Pradesh, expressed his gratitude for holding the event in Madhya Pradesh, which is truly the heart of incredible India.
The inaugural session ended with mesmerising and vibrant cultural dance performance.