The construction of the new model tourism destinations aims to improve the service level and promote the harmonious development of the tourism industry, said an official with the Office for Cultural and Ideological Progress under the Chinese Communist Party's Central Committee.

"Tourism plays an important role in economic development and social progress. We encourage the construction of model tourism destinations in order to create necessary conditions for tourism to grow in the future," said Zhang Xiqin, vice director of China National Tourism Administration (CNTA).

Zhang said that China will enrich the content of scenic spots, such as carrying out activities with traditional folk characters.

In the past four years, China has set up 30 model tourism destinations.

(Xinhua News Agency 09/14/2001)