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A large group of tourism company representatives from England, France, New Zealand and Poland arrived in Russia’s Chukotka Autonomous Region on Monday for an excursion trip aimed at identifying opportunities and prospects for tourism in the region.

The visit, scheduled until the end of this month, is initiated by the region’s branch of the Red Cross, a press statement from Chukotka’s administration reported.

The expedition commences in the village of Evgekinot, Iultinsky County, where the businesspeople will embark on a cutter voyage cruise and a road trip to the village of Iultin.

The program also includes observing a bird colony, visiting a museum, fishing trips and meeting Chukotka’s indigenous people.

After visiting Iultinsky County, the group will leave for Anadyrsky County where they will encounter more tourist attractions, the statement reported.

During the trip, the businesspeople will assess potential opportunities for organizing tours for foreigners in the region.

Chukotka is located in the farthest northeast region of Russia, with the population of 50,500 people. It possesses a unique nature with long winters lasting 7-8 months. Since 2003, Chukotka’s administration has been implementing a target program aimed to boost the tourist industry in the region.

In 2005, four tourist agencies which currently operate in Chukotka boasted receiving 1,500 tourists, which is four times more than in 2001, the site http://www.travelnn.ru said. The greatest number of foreign tourists - 829 - came from the USA, with 180 Philippine tourists ranking second.