The Islamic Republic of Iran has turned into a major tourism hub across the world, the head of Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization's Exhibitions and Publicity Headquarters said on Tuesday.
Mohammad Hossein Barzin made the remark in a meeting with some tourism-related officials, adding, Iran is important for all cultural, historical and religious tourists.
Referring to IRI's powerful presence in international tourism exhibitions, he noted that the Exhibitions and Publicity Headquarters plays a key role in attracting more tourists to Iran.
Given the high status of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the list of the United Nation World Tourism Organization, he termed hotels, camping and other types of accommodation as one of the most important factors for promotion of tourism industry.
He also criticized the mere presence of some hotels and tour and travel agencies in international tourism exhibitions, expressing hope that they would have stronger presence in near future.
Barzin said that four new markets have been added to Iran's target markets including the US, Australia, Hong Kong and South Korea.
He termed the issuance of e-visa as a great stride in the tourism industry, adding all related executive officials should take necessary steps in this respect.