The China National Tourism Administration (CNTA) Wednesday called for joint efforts to establish a new tourism cooperation scheme across the Taiwan straits.

Describing tourism as the ambassador of peace and a bridge of friendship, Shao Qiwei, director of CNTA, said on the 9th Tourism Friendship Conference that the scheme is aimed at promoting bilateral, smooth, orderly and mutual beneficial cooperation among tourism operators. In the 21st century, the tourism circle will contribute sincerity and power to national peace and reunification, Shao said.

He said here that the mainland always welcomes Taiwan tourism operators to discuss detailed issues on mainland residents visits to Taiwan.

"We hope the Taiwan authority can soon make preparations, in order to promote mainland visitors to Taiwan."

Shao said the mainland will encourage mainland tourism companies to participate in a Taipei tourism fair in November this year and invite Taiwan tourism companies to participate in a Tourism Expo in Xiamen in September.

He said CNTA will do the utmost to promote bilateral tourism exchanges in order to benefit both sides. He also hoped tourism operators will offer quality products.

(Xinhua News Agency February 16, 2006)