Tourist inflow to Armenia reached 603074 people in January-September 2012, Economy Minister said, citing statistical data.

As Ara Petrosyan told a news conference, “the figure rose by 9,4%, against 2011 results, with internal tourism progressing at a rapid rate in Armenia.”

“The result is due to cooperation between the authorities and private sector,” the Minister said, noting that the figure is planned to be increased to 800-850 thousand by yearend.

Commenting on external tourism, Petrosyan noted that 608175 foreign trips were made in January-September 2012. “A growth of 11,4% against 2011 results is welcome, testifying to a rise in income of Armenia’s middle class,” he said.