The European nation Monaco expressed its hope to attract more Chinese tourists.

China has entered into an automobile society, with Shanghai able to host Formula 1 competition. Monaco is also famous for its Formula 1 competition every April, said Michel Bouquier, president of Tourism and Convention Authority, in Beijing on Tuesday.

He said there was a relay from Monaco to Shanghai, when the Chinese economic hub was chosen as the host city for next World Expo in Monaco in 2002.

He said China is a country of a long history, whose antiques aroused great attention when displayed in Monaco. He hoped Chinese tourists can also visit Monaco, one of the oldest European nation.

The Mediterranean nation has bilateral agreement with France, so Chinese tourists only need Schengen visa to visit there.

(Xinhua News Agency October 27, 2005)