Tourism Minister Ertugrul Gunay recently declared that the country aims to generate tourism revenues worth 20 billion Euro this year, two billion Euro more than last year, as well as aiming to exceed the 25 million tourist mark, Zaman reported.

“The 25 million tourist mark is critical and I think we will exceed this in 2008,” Gunay said adding, “We must reach the revenue target of 20,000 million Euro.” Gunay stated that breaking the 25 million tourist barrier would be a psychological victory after the country drew in 23 million in 2007.In the first five months of the year, tourist numbers were up 12 percent from last year while tourism revenues jumped 28.4 percent to 2,780 million Euro in the first quarter.

Gunay also spoke on a strategic plan for tourism to generate tourism revenues of 50,000 million Euro by 2023 and reaching the 50 million tourist mark. “This means spending of 1,000 Euro per tourist. The current level is 700 Euro, so this will involve doubling the tourism target within 15 years,” he said.