Chinese artists perform during the opening ceremony of the 2019 Year of Tourism for China and Pacific Island Countries in Apia, capital of Samoa, April 1, 2019. The 2019 Year of Tourism for China and Pacific Island Countries was launched here at a grand ceremony in the capital of Samoa, with colored fireworks and wonderful cultural programs. [Photo/Xinhua]

According to Hunter, the launch of tourism year marks an important chapter in Samoa's tourism calendar as it officially marks the country's categorisation as a tourism destination for Chinese visitors.

"We, as Samoans, have DNA connections with China as some Samoans have blood relationship with Chinese. We love Chinese. We are ready and welcome them to visit our beautiful country," Hunter said.

Last year, Samoa, which has a population of more than 190,000, received over 172,000 foreign tourists. Currently, Samoa has a development blueprint to woo more foreign tourists.

Chinese Ambassador to Samoa Chao Xiaoliang told Xinhua that the tourism year is a very important event for China and Pacific island countries as this will help promote the cultural and personnel exchanges between them.

"I do believe that the tourism year will be a great success and the cooperation between China and Pacific Island countries in the tourism sector will no doubt bring tangible benefits to the people of the Pacific," he said.