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Photo courtesy of Belarus' Sport and Tourism Ministry

MINSK, 30 August (BelTA) – Belarus and Russia’s Astrakhan Oblast plan to develop cooperation in tourism. The matter was discussed at a meeting between Belarus’ Sport and Tourism Minister Sergei Kovalchuk and Deputy Chairwoman of the government, Minister of Culture and Tourism of Astrakhan Oblast Galina Zoteeva, BelTA learned from the press service of the Belarusian Sport and Tourism Ministry.

The parties talked over the state and prospects of cooperation in tourism. Sergei Kovalchuk stressed that Russia is a popular travel destination for many Belarusians and Russians show great interest in Belarus.

Galina Zoteeva has been to Minsk before. She said that every time she visits the Belarusian capital she finds something new and interesting. The minister visited the Belarusian regions where she was impressed with natural scenery, ancient architecture, national cuisine and hospitality of the locals. She noted that Astrakhan has also a lot to impress its tourists. The city is growing, renewing its infrastructure, restoring its historical buildings. Astrakhan Oblast is home to about 130 nationalities.

Galina Zoteeva suggested organizing an information tour of Astrakhan Oblast for Belarusian travel agencies. Sergei Kovalchuk agreed with the initiative of the Russian counterpart and noted that Belarus is ready to cooperate with Astrakhan Oblast both in tourism and sport.