Accra:Khuzestan Iran and Iraq have set a goal to boost their annual tourist exchanges to 10 million people, as stated by Tourism Minister Reza Salehi-Amiri. The minister emphasized the necessity for enhanced planning and robust cross-border infrastructure to reach this target.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, upon arrival in the southwestern province of Khuzestan, Salehi-Amiri highlighted the province's strategic role in strengthening tourism ties between the two neighboring nations. He pointed to Khuzestan's potential for land travel, medical tourism, and improved border infrastructure as key areas of focus.

Given the current limitations in air transport, Iran is prioritizing the development of land crossings and road travel through four border provinces Khuzestan, Ilam, Kermanshah, and West Azarbaijan. Salehi-Amiri noted that approximately 3.6 million Iraqi tourists visit Iran annually, with a similar number of Iranians traveling to Iraq. These statistics exclude the large number of travelers participating in the annual Arbaeen pilgrimage.

The minister underscored that enhancing land-based tourism is a principal aim of his visit to Khuzestan. Officials are set to assess the province's capacity to facilitate increased movement between Iran and Iraq. Salehi-Amiri also pointed out the significance of upgrading border facilities and organizing medical tourism services as part of broader efforts to amplify bilateral tourism.

To achieve the ambitious goal of 10 million tourist exchanges, new planning initiatives and the development of fresh tourism cooperation prospects are essential, Salehi-Amiri concluded.