On Feb 12, the Government of Armenia approved the program on state support for tourism development for 2015. The budget of the program is 188 mln AMD (nearly $390 thsd at the current exchange rate). The number of visitors to Armenia is expected to rise by 10% over year. Armenian Economy Minister Karen Chshmarityan presented the program.
The minister added that in 2015 Armenia marks the Armenian Genocide Centennial. The country will hold numerous events. So, the travel agencies and hotels should pay special attention to it, he said.
He pointed out that new tourism directions are being formed in the republic, particularly, winter tourism, diving, hang-gliding, etc.
In 2014 the number of tourists grew by 11.3% as compared with 2013 and totaled 1,200 thsd, he said. He added that 7% growth was registered in Georgia.
Armenian Prime Minister Hovik Abrahamyan asked whether the travelers' visits will grow by 100% if the state invests in tourism 1.8 bln AMD instead of 188 mln AMD.
The minister answered that the growth of visits has nothing to do with the invested funds.