Premier wraps up China Tourism Year with a pledge

The Republic of Korea's China Tourism Year-in which efforts were made to promote Chinese attractions to ROK tourists - came to an end on Sunday, with senior officials from both countries pledging to promote tourism cooperation at high levels of government.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Premier Li Keqiang said China and the ROK are each other's largest overseas tourism destinations with personal visits exceeding 10 million.

"This is a major breakthrough, not only showing that China and Korea have geographic proximity but also share similar cultures. For Chinese and Korean tourists, traveling to the other country is like visiting relatives or calling on neighbors," Li said. "The tourism industry, to some extent, is not only about economic activity but also about human activities. It enhances mutual understanding and bridges relationships."