On occasion of World Tourism Day, the Head of State reaffirmed his administration's goal to double Peru's receptive tourism from current 3.5 million to 7 million by 2021.
"It is an ambitious target, but if we measure it year by year, we will get there," he expressed at the Government Palace.
To illustrate his point, Mr. Kuczynski referred to Iceland, a country that welcomes as many tourists as the Inca nation despite hosting merely 1% of Peru's population.
"We can learn a thing or two from Icelanders," he said.
Thus, the APEC Summit will contribute to "reaching said objective."
In this respect, the top official proposed a number tourism measures, such as improving airport and hotel infrastructure, establishing tourist circuits in different areas and enhancing street cleaning and trash collection.
Regarding airports, he stressed the need to unblock Jorge Chavez International Airport's expansion works so they can be completed in less than five years.
The Head of State noted the government is also supporting Cusco's Chinchero Airport, but warned many others still remain unattended.
Likewise, he referred to Peru's several airports and aerodromes lacking lighting or signaling to operate night flights. Said facilities should be identified and listed in order to take corresponding measures.
Mr. Kuczynski also recalled his recent meeting with China Eastern airline executives to assess the possibility of a direct route to South America, including Peru.
As for the second measure, Peru's leader suggested creating tourist circuits to the north of the country. Said routes may cover, for instance, archaeological sites: Huaca del Sol y de La Luna (Temple of the Sun and the Moon, La Libertad region), Chan Chan (seat of ancient Chimu civilization, La Libertad region) and the Fortress of Kuelap (Amazonas region).
He extended the suggestion to connecting Peru's southern Arequipa, Cusco and Puno regions by train.
The top official also considered promoting tourism among Chilean citizens who visit southern Tacna region every year, so they will also visit nearby Moquegua and Arequipa regions.
"Hotels are wonderful here, but we need to offer benefits regarding permits, planning and all of that. Now that APEC economies are coming here, I think it is also an opportunity to present Peru to the world," he said.
Mr. Kuczynski was joined by First Lady Nancy Lange, as well as State Ministers and other authorities.
As is known, Peru hosts APEC Forum meetings in 2016 to be also attended by U.S. President Barack Obama and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg.
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