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HAI PHONG (VNS)— The Red River Delta region attracted 35 million tourists this year, a 15 per cent increase over last year while bringing in revenues of VND35 trillion (US$1.66 billion), up 16 per cent year-on-year.

The figures were announced at the closing ceremony of the National Tourism Year 2013 programme, entitled "Red River Civilisation", held in the northern city of Hai Phong on Saturday.

The organisers noted that 67 cultural, sports and tourism events and festivals organised in 11 cities and provinces in the Red River Delta and northern coastal region this year attracted an estimated 35 million visitors.

Hai Phong, which hosted the 2013 programme, drew 4.3 million tourists and earned revenues of nearly VND2 trillion this year, an 11 percent increase over last year, said Duong Anh Dien, chairman of Hai Phong People's Committee.

Also at the ceremony, the National Tourism Year programme's flag was handed over to leaders of Lam Dong Central Highlands province, who will host next year's programme.

During National Tourism Year 2014, characteristics and identities of the Central Highland region's traditional culture will be featured through a series of special tourism events, including a brocade festival, a performance of traditional customs, a folk arts festival and a food festival, among others. — VNS