ULAN BATOR, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- An annual cultural festival titled "Khuree Tsam-Danshig" kicked off here near the capital on Saturday to promote the tourism sector.

The festival will present two unique events, namely the ritual Tsam mask dance and naadam, or "three manly games," while many other activities such as a horseback archery show, folk music and dance concert and cultural fair are also expected to be held.

"It is one of the priorities for us to preserve, spread and pass on our nomadic cultural heritage to the next generations because we are citizens of the capital of nomads," Dolgorsuren Sumiyabazar, the mayor of Ulan Bator, said at the opening ceremony of the festival.

The festival is also organized to promote the country's nomadic culture and heritage to the world, and to attract more domestic and foreign tourists, said the mayor.

The Mongolian government has been taking measures to revive the pandemic-hit tourism sector.

In January, 34 countries were granted visa-free entry to Mongolia for tourism purposes, which increased the number of visa-exempt countries to 61.

The Asian country has also declared 2023-2025 as "Years to Visit Mongolia" to promote tourism.

Currently, Mongolia's economy is largely dependent on its export-oriented mining sector. Developing tourism is seen as the most viable way to diversify the economy. Enditem

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