PM Garibashvili: 2013 was a very successful year in terms of tourism

"Mestia can receive tourists for 365 days a year and we should promote this place, Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili announced at the opening of the winter tourist season in Mestia, Svaneti region.

The Prime Minister noted that tourism is a major source of income for the local population.

"The winter tourism season starts today and I congratulate you all on this. It is symbolic that the opening of the winter season is in Mestia, which is fortunately becoming a special place. Todays event serves to demonstrate the potential of the Mestia ski resort. Svaneti is an attractive region for tourists throughout the whole year. It is a rare place in the world where ancient culture, unique architecture, beautiful nature, and modern ski facilities are combined," Garibashvili announced.

According to him, more than 150 000 foreign and local tourists have visited Mestia this year.

I would like to point out that 2013 was a very successful year for our country in terms of tourism. As of today, more than 5 million foreign tourists visited Georgia, which is an unprecedented number for our country", said the PM.

He also stressed that the increased number of tourists means increased employment in the region, as well as construction of additional facilities, development of tourism infrastructure, and attraction of investment.

"Our government will maximally promote this process, as we understand that tourism is the main source of income for the local population. Infrastructural projects will continue in the future too," added Garibashvili.