"A number of Qatari projects are under preparation, which would make investments in Vietnam’s tourism sector, including construction of tourist complexes,” Nguyen Quy Phuong, director-general of travel industry management department at the Vietnamese Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism explained.

The official was of the view that there are still a lot to be done to attract tourists from the Gulf region. Further, the Vietnamese are seriously interested in knowing the region and exploring it to enhance bilateral relations.

Phuong was speaking on the sidelines of the opening of the 8th edition of the international travel expo (ITE) with the main target of promoting tourism in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam.

Senior representatives of the four neighbouring Asian countries held a workshop with the topic ‘The travel links of Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam, during the expo’.

Each country presented a cultural show, reflecting its traditions and an official gave a presentation about the natural, cultural and heritage wealth of his country and the attractions it holds for tourists.

The expo intended to promote the four countries as one destination.

Phuong pointed out that tourism is key to world stability, peace and promotion of business. He said that tourism is still one of the key sectors that would contribute considerably to the fast-growing economies.

Vietnam would work jointly with the other three countries to bring them closer to being one destination and ease travel procedures for potential tourists.

The ITE-HMC is regarded as Vietnam’s foremost tourism event and has been an annual show since 2005. This year’s event promises a series of new and exciting features, in addition to the trade exhibition.

The programmes will benefit tourism promotion organisers, operators, industry professionals and international and local visitors. One destination for the four countries in the sub-Mekong region would target enhancing and maximising of related trade networking experiences for these countries with over 500 participating companies from more than 30 countries and an anticipated turnout of around 18,000 quality international and regional visitors.

Last year the turnout of tourists visiting Vietnam increased by more than 10 percent and the number is constantly on the rise.

The Vietnam marine tourism, which has long shaped the industry in the country, is also dramatically growing because of its natural potential, as it has a long coast as long as 3,300km.