Kupang, E. Nusa Tenggara (ANTARA News)- East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Governor Viktor B Laiskodat said the annual meeting of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank in Nusa Dua, Bali could be a milestone for the emergence of NTT as a major tourist destination area in the country.

Thousands of delegates attending the IMF and WB meeting are expected to visit Labuan Bajo after the end of the meeting on Oct 14. Labuan Bajo in the western end of Flores is one of the destinations under a package tour prepared by the meeting committee.

Labuan Bajo is the main access to the Komodo National Park on the Komodo islands the habitat of Komodo, the giant lizards, a rare animal species, found only in the Indonesian islands. The ancient animals are one of the world`s seven wonders of nature.

"This is a very good momentum if we are to develop out tourism sector. Thousands of the delegates would flock to the tourist area," the government said here on Thursday.

He said preparations have all been set by the regional administration , adding even the central government helps in serving the visitors.

The regional administration especially the Mangarai Barat district administration has to ensure that everything is prepared for the convenience of the visitors, he said.

"I have coordinated with the Manggarai Barat administration and they are ready to welcome the visitors,: the governor said.

The big number of visitors to Labuan Bajo especially to the Komodo National Park would contribute to achieving the region`s target set for tourist visits this year.

But most important is Labuan Bajo and the Komodo National Park would be better known to the world.

This year NTT has a target to draw 1.5 million tourists both domestic and foreign tourists.

Reporting by Kornelis Aloysius Ileama Kaha
Editing by A Saragih, Yoseph Hariyadi

Reporter: Antara
Editor: Andi Abdussalam
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