This photo taken on May 1, 2023 shows a scene at the 41st International Tourism Fair of Cuba, in Havana, Cuba. The 41st International Tourism Fair of Cuba kicked off Monday at Havana's Morro-Cabana Historic Military Park.
Running through Friday, the event is attended by 573 tour operators from across the world. (Xinhua/Lin Zhaohui)
HAVANA, May 1 (Xinhua) -- The 41st International Tourism Fair of Cuba kicked off Monday at Havana's Morro-Cabana Historic Military Park.
Running through Friday, the event is attended by 573 tour operators from across the world.
The tourism industry is fundamental for the island's economic recovery, Cuban Prime Minister Manuel Marrero said at the event.
"Participating in the development of Cuban tourism is to contribute to the improvement of living conditions of our people," he said, adding that Cuba can overcome challenges no matter how big they might be.
Cuban Tourism Minister Juan Carlos Garcia Granda said he expected the fair to be an enriching experience for all, so new business opportunities could be discovered.
In 2022, Cuba received nearly 1.7 million tourists, lower than the government's estimate of 2.5 million international visitors.
The Cuban government expects that 3.5 million tourists will visit the Caribbean nation this year. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the island nation received some 4 million tourists annually. ■
Actors give a performance at the 41st International Tourism Fair of Cuba, in Havana, Cuba, May 1, 2023. The 41st International Tourism Fair of Cuba kicked off Monday at Havana's Morro-Cabana Historic Military Park.
Running through Friday, the event is attended by 573 tour operators from across the world. (Xinhua/Lin Zhaohui)