Guizhou province launched a tourism promotion at the United Nations headquarters in New York on June 2, showcasing its fascinating natural and cultural heritage.

The promotion event witnessed many memoranda of understanding signed between the Guizhou Tourism Development Commission and some tourism industry associations of the United States.

A picture exhibition showcases Guizhou province’s fascinating natural and cultural heritage at the United Nations headquarters in New York on June 2. [Photo by Li Muzi/Xinhua]

Located on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, Guizhou is known as a "Mountain Kingdom". A total of 54,600 tourists from the United States visited Guizhou in 2016, a 32.2 percent increase from 2015, according to Lu Yongzheng, vice-governor of Guizhou province.

"Tourism can act as a bridge between China and the United States," said Lu. He expressed his hope that the event could deepen cooperation between the two sides.

Lu Yongzheng, vice-governor of Guizhou province, outlines the history, culture and economic strength of Guizhou province in New York on June 2. [Photo by Li Muzi/Xinhua]

Mayor of New York City Bill de Blasio said that the event provided a chance to discover more about the heritage and attractions of one of China's most beautiful regions.

De Blasio also commended the efforts to foster cross-cultural exchange, promote international trade and tourism and reinforce bonds between New York and China.

Visitors browse pamphlets about Guizhou at the United Nations headquarters in New York on June 2. [Photo by Li Muzi/Xinhua]