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Soni says terrorism a major obstacle to tourism

     Hyderabad: Tourism and Culture Minister Ambika Soni inaugurated the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) mart here today. The chairman PATA Janice Antonson and President and CEO PATA Peter DE Jong and State Chief Minister Dr. Y.S.R Reddy was also present on the occasion. Speaking at a dinner reception organized in honour of the PATA delegates on the eve of the inauguration PATA, Ambika Soni called upon member states of PATA to come together against cross border terrorism and networks of criminals activities. Soni said terrorism is causing concerns globally. It has no boundaries and no religion. It affects life and property of people belonging to all religions. She called upon all the member states of PATA that they must come together against cross border terrorism and networks of criminal activities in a spirit of cooperation. "We have been campaigning to bring PATA to India since 2005. Through this event we not only wanted to showcase our important tourist destinations and products but also convey to the world the importance that Government of India, all the State Governments and the travel trade fraternity attach to realizing the true potential of tourism for the good of the country and its people," she said. "With increasing realization of tourism potential for employment generation and economic growth, we are developing tourism infrastructure in a big way in partnership with State Governments and travel trade industry," she added.
-Sep 17,  2008