Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal has said that the goal for the coming year is to reach a total of 2 million tourist arrivals.

Speaking on PSM's program yesterday, Faisal said he intends to expand the existing markets and explore more markets to promote tourism in the Maldives. He said it is important to find new markets to reach the target of two million tourists next year.

In his efforts to increase the number of tourists, Faisal said he is working to increase the budget of the MMPRC, which is working to promote tourism in the Maldives.

Faisal said the war in Ukraine and Russia and Israeli attacks on Gaza are making it difficult to increase tourist arrivals. Many people are hesitant about traveling due to the wars, he said, adding that marketing should be strengthened.

He said China was the largest tourist market before the outbreak of the coronavirus. The government of President Dr. Mohammed Muizzu will maintain close relations with the Chinese government and this will increase the number of Chinese tourists, he said.