New welcome scheme launched in Ottawa

A new tourism initiative has been launched in Canada offering what is described as a "warm welcome" to arriving passengers at Macdonald-Cartier Airport in Ottawa.

The Welcome to Canada project has been organised to give tourists a look at the destinations and experiences on offer in the country.

It is being launched as part of Canada's build-up to the Vancouver Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in 2010.

Diane Ablonczy, government minister of state for tourism, said the strategy will "drive tourism and promote Canada as a desirable destination before, during and after the 2010 Winter Games".

Paul Benoit, chief executive of the airport where the scheme will be launched, said: "Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport is proud to be the first venue in the country to support this project.

"International visitors arriving in Ottawa will have a first-hand view of some of the great experiences that await them in Canada."

Travellers can catch flights to Ottawa with carriers including American Airlines, Air Canada and Continental Airlines.

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