The President of Mongolia, Elbegdorj Tsakhia, has pinpointed tourism as a
means to diversify the Mongolian economy and outlined plans to increase
international tourist arrivals to the country . “Not only should we focus on
our mining industry, which is booming, we should also diversify our country’s
economy through sectors such as tourism,” said President Tsakhia.

The President further expressed his intention to boost tourism related
infrastructure, raise public awareness of the importance of tourism and build
“a dedicated and stronger administration for the sector”.   

President Tsakhia made the remarks at a meeting with UNWTO
Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, who applauded the President’s recognition of tourism’s
contribution to economic growth, job creation and development.

“Tourism is the oil that never runs out,” said Mr. Rifai. “While other
economic sectors generate short and medium-term gains, tourism, when
sustainably planned and managed, has proven to stimulate economies over the
long-term.”

“By placing sustainable tourism higher in its national agenda, Mongolia
looks set to continue benefiting from the income generated by visitors for
years to come,” he added.

On the occasion of his visit, Mr. Rifai presented President Tsakhia with an
Open Letter from UNWTO and the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) on the
importance of tourism to global growth and development. The Letter calls on
Heads of State and Government to prioritize the sector higher in national
policies in order to maximize its full potential.

Mr. David Scowsill, President & CEO, WTTC, said: “Mongolia has a rich
culture, offering a unique and powerful experience to travellers. Mongolia has
truly arisen as a destination and I am delighted that the country’s leadership
fully recognises the importance of Travel & Tourism as a vehicle for job
creation and sustainable economic growth.  In 2011, the industry directly
employed 34,500 jobs (3% of total employment) and sustained, both directly and
indirectly, 9% of GDP in Mongolia.  Long term growth forecasts are
extremely positive with Travel & Tourism’s contribution to the country’s
GDP set to rise by 6% per annum over the next ten years.  With government
support this figure could be boosted even further and today’s acceptance of the
Open Letter by President Tsakhia sends a strong signal of support to the Travel
& Tourism industry, both within Mongolia and internationally.”