Mr. Zhu Shanzhong, Vice Chairman of China National Tourism Administration met with Mr. John Penrose, Minister of UK Tourism and Heritage in London on 18th October, 2010. Both parties conducted in-depth discussion on leisure tourism, public services, World Expo, the Olympic Games and other topics.

Leading by Zhu Shanzhong, the Public service and Leisure tourism Investigation Delegation’s visit of UK was an important segment after visiting of Italy and France. After reviewed the development of the tourism cooperation between the two countries, Mr. Zhu Shanzhong briefed the officials of the status quo of Chinese tourism industry and introduces the keypoints of the visiting.

Mr. John Penrose delivered warm welcome to the delegation and congratulating on the great progress of Chinese tourism as well as the successful holding of Beijing Olympic Games and Shanghai World Expo. He introduced the development of UK tourism and the preparing work of the London Olympic and hoped to enhance communication and cooperation between the two countries. What’s more, the two parties also discuss on the optimizing travelling environment.
 
Having recognised the recent development of the tourism cooperation between the two countries, Chairman Zhu briefed Minister Penrose and the British tourism officials of the fast development of Chinese tourism industry which has been recognised by the Central Government of China as an important “pillar Industry”. Mr Zhu also explained the important role that CNTA plays by combining the functions of ministry of tourism and national tourism board hence decides on tourism policy and regulations as well as promoting China overseas while supporting Chinese nationals travelling overseas.

Later, the relevant officials hold further informal discussion with the delegates on the topics of UK public service and leisure tourism. The visiting delegation had the opportunity visiting the information centre of Visit Britain and Visit Scotland not far from the DCMS.

Before this visit, the delegation met Mr. Christian Mantei, CEO of Atout France. During more than 3 hours’ discussion, Mr. Christian Mantei briefed the delegation of the development of Atout France as well as its main functions.
 
Besides, the delegation also studies on the fields such as the Travel Information Center, Public Services Facilities and Leisure Facilities with relevant principals.

Relevant news in Chinese: 祝善忠率代表团会见英国与法国旅游部官员