China has signed tourism Memorandum of Understandings on visa and related issues with 53 nations, with the two most recent signed with Ireland on Tuesday and with Seychelles in late April.

China has so far approved 67 nations with Authorized Destination Status (ADS), among which the 10 new members of the European Union were automatically added in the list from May 1.

However, Chinese group tours organized by travel agencies can only go to 26 nations so far while the others are working out visa procedures and exchanging travel agency names.

With beautiful scenery and mild climate, Ireland will expect more Chinese tourists, said Irish Minister of Arts, Sport and Tourism John O'Donoghue, who was here for his first official visit.

For many Chinese people, who also have long history and splendid cultures, the ancient relics and literature masters of Ireland will be main attractions, he added.

He said both nations were negotiating on simplifying visa procedures and launching direct flights, in order to provide convenience for group travelers as well as business people.

According to the prediction of the World Tourism Organization, by 2020, China will become the world's fourth tourism nation in terms of outbound tourists.

(Xinhua News Agency May 13, 2004)