Soundbites

The conference is an important initiative, especially when it comes to creating new growth opportunities, alleviating poverty and furthering sustainable development. China has been and remains by far the fastest-growing tourism source market in the world and in Denmark we have also had the pleasure of experiencing a significant growth in tourism from China. Denmark has a lot to offer Chinese visitors, and especially our royal palaces and castles are very popular.

Troels Lund Poulsen, minister for business and growth of Denmark

Travel and tourism bring people together and create cultural understanding, drive economic growth and provide opportunities across gender, geography and skill level. As we are celebrating US-China Tourism Year in 2016, US industries and government are working together to welcome increasing numbers of Chinese visitors. Beginning with the extension of validity for tourist and business visas from one to 10 years in 2014, we are working to increase mutual cultural understanding and to provide visitors with an enjoyable travel experience.

Kelly Craighead, executive director of US National Travel and Tourism Office

In a world wounded by conflict, tourism is the great healer. Today, tourism contributes to global GDP like never before - but our challenge is to ensure much greater economic empowerment at the regional level and in local communities. Tourism development that is managed in a sustainable, responsible and environmentally friendly manner can make a real difference in developing countries that boast relatively undiscovered tourism gems. Tourism is also an important provider of educational and employment opportunities.

Dale Lawrence, chief operating officer of the Pacific Asia Travel Association

In the least-developed countries like Bangladesh, tourism can play a vital role in economic growth. Bangladesh is blessed with huge potential for tourism development. By preparing and implementing a complete tourism master plan, Bangladesh can utilize these opportunities... Asia still dominates China's outbound tourism market. About 50,000 Chinese tourists visit Bangladesh every year. Most of them are business visitors. Bangladesh has many things to offer Chinese visitors. It is rich in Buddhist cultural heritage.

Aktar Ahamed, deputy director of the Bangladesh Tourism Board

(China Daily 05/19/2016 page6)