Xi congratulates conclusion of China-Switzerland Year of Tourism

Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to the closing ceremony of the China-Switzerland Year of Tourism held on Thursday in Lausanne, Switzerland.

In his message, Xi said he made the decision to launch the China-Switzerland Year of Tourism together with his Swiss counterpart, Doris Leuthard.

"Taking this opportunity, China and Switzerland held exchange activities and expanded personnel exchanges during the year, which enhanced mutual understanding between the two peoples and promoted bilateral communication and cooperation in such areas as culture, economy and trade, injecting fresh impetus to the development of China-Switzerland relations," he said.

Xi also called on both sides to strengthen people-to-people exchanges and enhance practical cooperation, so as to keep consolidating the public foundation for the development of bilateral ties.

Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) and his Swiss counterpart Doris Leuthard at launching ceremony of the China-Switzerland Year of Tourism in Davos, Switzerland, Jan. 17, 2017.

China has become the fourth largest market of tourists for Switzerland, said Li Jinzao, head of China's Tourism Administration, adding that the number is still increasing.

There were over 1.2 million two-way visits between China and Switzerland, increased by 12 percent comparing with the same period last year, according to Li.

About 40 flights are linking China and Switzerland every week, he added.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)