Consulate News
Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Minister of State for Tourism & Culture (Independent Charge) met with Mr. Li Jiheng, Party Secretary of Yunnan Province in Kunming on 14th November. Hon'ble Minister of State for Tourism and Culture was in Kunming to attend the China International Travel Mart where India is the "Guest Country of Honour" this year.
Both leaders discussed the enormous potential for expanding bilateral cooperation, specifically in tourism. Hon'ble Minister informed Party Secretary Li Jiheng about the development of theme-based Buddhist tourist circuits in India, the Ministry of Tourism's plan to train Chinese-speaking guides, and the launch of a helpline that will provide services in ten languages including Chinese for the convenience of international travelers. He suggested that both sides should increase their exchanges and participation in each other's exhibitions, conferences and other events to strengthen cooperation.
Party Secretary Li Jiheng fondly recalled his visit to India last year. He welcomed the positive momentum in exchanges between India and Yunnan and noted that India had also participated as the Partner Country at the China-South Asia Expo in June this year in Kunming. Yunnan Governor Chen Hao had also visited India earlier this year.
Hon'ble Minister invited Yunnan to participate in the Surajkund International Crafts Mela next year in February. The state Government of Haryana had earlier extended an invitation to China to participate as Partner Country at next year's edition of the Surajkund International Crafts Mela. Party Secretary Li Jiheng accepted the invitation and agreed to send a delegation from Yunnan.
The meeting was followed by a banquet hosted by Party Secretary Li Jiheng in honor of Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Hon'ble Minister of State for Tourism & Culture.
14 November 2015
