The cross year of tourism between Russia and Spain has started in Madrid. Head of Rostourism Oleg Safonov, Special Representative of the President of the Russian Federation for International Cultural Cooperation Mikhail Shvydkoy, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Russia in Spain Yuri Korchagin, Chairman of the Fund "Council of Spain-Russia" Jose Pedro Sebastian de Erice, Secretary of State for Tourism of Spain Isabel Borrego, representatives of the World Tourism Organization, tourism business of the countries participated in the opening ceremony.

On the eve of the opening ceremony the head of Rostourism met with Isabel Borrego, State Secretary for Tourism of Spain. During the conversation, Oleg Safonov spoke about the need to ensure a high level of security in places of rest for tourists. The head of Rostourism noted that, in his opinion, Spain will be able to guarantee the safety of travel in the country for Russians.

As part of the Year of Tourism in Madrid it is planned to open a Russian tourist office Visit Russia, which will contribute to the systematic and effective promotion of the tourist potential of Russia in the Spanish market.

In October-November 2016, the Russian Gastronomic Week will be held, which will introduce Spaniards to the national culinary traditions of Russia and draw attention to the country as a destination for gastronomic tourism.

Rostourism together with Russian regions is preparing press tours to Russia for Spanish journalists.

Residents of Russian cities will be able to get acquainted with Spanish culture during exhibitions, festivals and lectures on great Spanish writers, artists and musicians.