The 28th edition of the international exhibition Tourism & Travel Expo, a benchmark event for the Moldovan tourism industry, was opened on Friday in Chisinau. More than 100 participants from Moldova, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Romania and Ukraine present their tourism offers, ranging from traditional holiday destinations to unique packages for tourists looking for authentic experiences, IPN reports.

Minister of Culture Sergiu Prodan, in the inauguration of the exhibition, underlined the importance of tourism as a factor of economic development and promotion of the country's image. "Tourism is that element that accentuates the pride of a country. The hospitality of Moldovans impresses visitors, and the human resource makes the difference," noted the minister.

Romania's Ambassador to Moldova Cristian-Leon Țurcanu highlighted the close bilateral tourism relations: "Romania was present at almost all editions of the exhibition. We are glad to see that many Moldovans choose Romania as a tourist destination, and we are always ready to welcome them with hospitality."

Representatives of the Organization for the Development of Entrepreneurship said that the institution supports entrepreneurs working in the tourism sector through non-reimbursable financing programs and loans for business development.

According to the organizers, the event also focuses on promoting domestic tourism, with the participation of 15 district councils and ATU Gagauzia. A premiere for this year is the participation of the Chisinau City Hall, which promotes the capital city's sights as a top tourist destination.

One of the attractions of the exhibition is the festival-contest of folk traditions held under the title "Hora: united by tradition". The competitors contend in stand design, artistic programs and presentation of local attractions, and the event will end with a dance held throughout the hall to which all visitors and participants will be invited.

Tourism & Travel Expo brings to the fore two directions: promoting Moldova as a tourist destination and facilitating cooperation with international partners in the development of outbound tourism. The stands of tourism associations bring together tour operators and agencies specialized in sales abroad, thus contributing to the strengthening of the tourism industry in the Republic of Moldova.