On July 23, the President of Mongolia Ts.Elbegdorj received the Secretary-General of the United National World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Taleb Rifai. 

The President noted, “There is a great opportunity for Mongolia to develop tourism. Mongolia is a distinctive country with pristine nature, rich history and peculiar way of livelihood. Also, tourism is a significant sector that would produce more job positions. Mr. Secretary-General’s visit to Mongolia will be of important significance in exploring cooperation opportunities with your organization in the tourism sector. In the recent, we have composed our new Parliament. I believe that the new Government will take into consideration not only mining, but the development of tourism and its infrastructure.”

Secretary-General Taleb Rifai replied, “Tourism plays a significant role in the economy, where it increases job positions and considerably affects economic growth. Currently, 1 billion people annually travels, with 1 out 20 job positions befalling in the tourism sector. It might be very opportune to develop eco-tourism in Mongolia. In the last 14 years, I have met with Presidents and Prime Ministers of 24 countries, where I have handed a letter requesting to be a supporter of the tourism sector”, and after Taleb Rifai has handed a Letter to President Ts.Elbegdorj.

In the letter, there was noted data on the status and contribution of the sector in the world economy. Also, it mentioned about the underway campaign on increasing the current contribution of the tourism sector in the economic growth and development of the UNWTO and World Travel and Tourism Council, in the frames of which was written, “We appeal to you Mr. President of Mongolia Tsakhia ELBEGDORJ to unite with other leaders of the world and the above mentioned two organizations and contribute your voice in our efforts.”