YEREVAN, JUNE 28, ARMENPRESS. In an interview with “Armenpress”, head of the Tourism Department of the Armenian Ministry of Economy Mekhak Apresyan said Pope Francis’ visit to Armenia promises to have positive impact not only on the expansion of tourism in Armenia, but also on the choice of Armenia as a country of pilgrimage and religious tourism.

Moreover, his visit was another opportunity to speak about the Armenian people, the ancient culture and to raise awareness of the international community.

“Pope’s visit which he called as a pilgrimage, has and will have a significant impact not only on tourism, but also on raising awareness within the world community about Armenia. The first Christian country which is famous for its traditions, culture, wonderful, peaceful, kind, hospitable people”, Apresyan said.

He stated that if people are interested in religious tourism, cultural dialogue, they can come and see the first Christian country in the same way as we would prefer to see a Buddhist or a Muslim country. “Of course, first of all the Christians will be interested, but representatives of other religions can also show interest to visit Armenia”, he said.

Apresyan said after Pope Francis’ visit, it will be possible to analyze the information on the number of tourists visited Armenia after the publication of the quarterly official statistics. Before that, we can speak about articles, videos published and released by the international media.

He said the international media coverage on Armenia contributes to the development of tourism in Armenia. “The international media coverage has its impact in different stages of decision-making: first of all, the awareness is rising, a new impetus is given in order to be convinced on his/ her choice while making a decision”, Apresyan said.

Pope Francis visited Armenia on June 24-26. The slogan of his visit was “Visit to the first Christian Nation”. Three-day journey was full of liturgies, prayers, peace calls and contacts with the faithful.