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Romanians perceive the Europeans as rather thrifty, haughty and distant people. As for how Romanians describe themselves, it looks as follows: traditionalist, talkative, strained and competent. This is the conclusion of a research by the Governmental Strategy Agency, accomplished in April-May.

Most of the people questioned take pride in their Romanian origin. As for what they think of their fellow Romanians, the perception sticks to adjectives like traditionalist, strained, clever, talkative, friendly and competent. But the perception of Europeans is mainly built of the following adjectives: thrifty, cold, distant, haughty, modern and so on.

Corruption together with the state of Romanian economy and politics are thought to be factors reflecting a poor image of Romania abroad. And more difficulties are mentioned: infrastructure, environment, poverty, lie, dishonesty and cheating. Almost half of the Romanians asked opine Romania isn't a stable country politically and 86% of them mention corruption is present.

State institutions' activities to promote Romania's image abroad are criticized for lacking intensity and efficient use of funds. 64% claim authorities don't do enough to promote the state's image and 55% say the funds are insufficient.

The people questioned believe the whole action to promote and improve Romania's image abroad will be durable and that it will take about 17 years to get a positive outcome.

Bulgaria is no attraction, Romanians just visit it

Greece and Turkey are the most attractive destinations for Romanian tourists. As for Bulgaria, a country attracting more and more Romanians for travel, is thought to be the least attractive in Eastern Europe. Romania comes next, followed by Hungary, Slovenia, Poland, Croatia and the Czech Republic. 84% of the people believe Romania to be a safe destination for foreign tourists and 68% describe Romanian tourism services as good. Still 79% think such services are too expensive, given their quality. (...)

Corina SCARLAT

Articol disponibil la adresa http://www.ziua.net/display.php?id=221045&data=2007-05-22