The 33^rd International Tourism Fair was festively opened at Belgrade Fair. At the largest regional tourism show, lasting till Sunday, February 27, there are 900 exhibitors from 43 countries. The 2^nd Wine Fair and the 1st Souvenir Fair take place at the same time.

- Belgrade Tourism Fair included travel industry representatives from the whole world and I have got the great honor of being an active participant of such an event, said Ms. Petra Hedorfer, President of the European Travel Commission.
- Last year, the tourist travel turnover was increased for 6.7% and the total tourist travel value reached the record amount of 935 million US Dollars. The 3.2% tourist package value increase in Europe has been accomplished, as well, but with the 12.6% increase, Asia was the last year’s winner in the tourism industry.

The President of the European Travel Commission pointed out Serbia was a great travel destination and the Danube was an important tourism attraction, both in Serbia and Europe.

Welcoming the exhibitors and visitors of the Tourism Fair, Mr. Ivo Mujo, State Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Croatia, said the Croatian and Serbian partnership at this event would additionally bring closer the tourism and economy of the two countries:

- Croatia is the Partner Country at the 33rd International Tourism Fair and it provides an additional dimension to our participation. We support the cooperation also by introducing new airline routes, so that the most beautiful coast in the world becomes only about fifty minutes far away. The guests from Serbia are very important for us, but I have to point out the increased visit is bilateral, since more and more Croatians come to Serbia.

Mr. Goran Petkovic, the State Secretary in the Ministry of Economics and Regional Development, also spoke at the festive opening of the Tourism Fair as the right place for the regional cooperation promotion:

- This traditional event considerably contributes to the tourism development and the reputation of Serbia and the Danube is a river of cooperation and a natural connection to Europe. Many routes go on the Danube, as well – those of wine, culture and Roman Emperors. Serbia has got many important events to affirm and, in addition to the tourism offer, we would like to promote another two events – the Wine and Souvenir Fairs.