The EU-funded Environmentally and Socially Responsible Tourism Capacity Development Programme (EU-ESRT) provided technical support for the meeting.

At the meeting, head of the international advisory group under the EU-ESRT, Mary McKeon, delivered a report on effective implementation of the 2017National Tourism Year, including evaluations on activities during the event proposed by local provinces and practice models in implementing the same event around the world in countries such as Malaysia, the Republic of Korea and Europe.

Mary McKeon suggested connecting the central events with sub events and holding at least two international-scale events for each quarter.

Experts also advised local authorities to promote the participation of the business community in the event, strengthen marketing activities and build a more attractive brand identity system.

In addition, to enhance the impact of the National Tourism Year, local provinces in 2016, 2017 and 2018 should develop activities in three stages: preparation, implementation and making impressions.

In 2016, the EU-ESRT will support the northwestern provinces in participating in the Vietnam International Travel Mart (VITM) 2016 in Hanoi and organising a press conference under the framework of the fair to announce activities in 2016 as well as scheduled events for the 2017 National Tourism Year.

The Northwestern Steering Committee, the Vietnam Tourism Association and national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines will support the region to open a 500m2 booth on northwest tourism at the 2016 VITM, introducing the impressive nature, unique cultural diversity, fascinating history and friendly hospitality of the region.

Nhan Dan