06/05/2004

In Doha (Qatar), the Head of Finance, Economy and Tourism Development, Miguel Angel Villanueva, thanked the solidarity of the international tourism sector after the tragic events and gave his assurances that "Today Madrid is back to its normal dynamic and happy self".

Villanueva described Madrid as "an open-minded city, receptive to the outside world but which brings with it its own a rich historical and cultural heritage - but with a mind to the future."

According to him, Madrid will undertake a strategic tourism program based on quality which, as a concept will govern all facets of the sector. "This new Madrid," quoted Villanueva, "requires a new type of quality tourism, which can go hand in hand with culture, social activities or business if so required".

Furthermore, Villanueva reminded that the city will be able to shows its capacity as an international stage as it hosts the Royal Wedding of H.R.H. Prince Felipe. "by hosting this event, Madrid will show the world its pleasant nature and welcoming spirit and will demonstrate that in a very short time, it has managed to get back to complete normality".

A historic occasion of this kind has not taken place in the city for 98 years. The 1.400 guests to the wedding, which include members of Royal Households and Heads of State and Government from across the globe, thousands of journalists as well as any tourist who wish to come to Madrid will be amazed by the charms of our city which for this day will become the focal point of the whole world.

Millions of citizens across the globe will be able to get a glimpse of a city that will shine in all its splendour. On may 22nd, the true beauty of Madrid will shine out.