POLOTSK, 8 April (BelTA) – Polotsk is the birthplace of the Belarusian state and spirituality. It should be borne in mind during the development of the town as a tourist destination. The opinion was voiced by Anatoly Tozik, Vice Prime Minister of Belarus, Chairman of the Tourism Expert and Coordination Council under the Council of Ministers, at a visiting session. The visiting session is supposed to take place in Polotsk and Novopolotsk. Anatoly Tozik believes that in order to advance Polotsk’s tourism infrastructure, it is necessary to preserve and restore what can be restored and to increase the number of various class hotels. Educational efforts will be another important factor in attracting tourists to the town. “It is necessary to talk about the history of Polotsk, about the origin of the Belarusian state as much as possible. Our country has a long history. We have never left this land. Our ancestors have lived here,” stressed Anatoly Tozik. The Vice Premier believes that the concept for developing the tourism infrastructure of Polotsk’s historical areas that the town authorities have presented is worth considering. It should be polished taking into account opinions of historians and the public. Focus should be placed on spiritual beginnings. The government aims to make tourism a highly profitable industry. It is impossible to do it without Polotsk, Anatoly Tozik is convinced. The town of Polotsk will mark its 1150th anniversary in 2012.

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