Sania Mirza and former All-England Badminton Champion Pullela Gopichand have been appointed by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Ministry as ambassadors to promote tourism in India and abroad. 

Ms Mirza said she was proud to be a Hyderabadi. "I will do all that I can to make Hyderabad a preferred destination," she said. 

At a gathering here on Monday, Dr J. Geeta Reddy, Minister for Tourism and Sugar, said that sports and tourism went together. "They both understand cultures and build bridges. Also, they create better understanding of people's cultures," she said. 

Mr Gopichand said he himself liked the tourism destinations in the State. "I have visited most places," he said.  "All these years, I had been promoting the State in my personal capacity, now I do that officially," he said. 

Mr Gopichand said the State tourism potential would be promoted at the upcoming Junior ABC to be held at Jakarta. 

"It is a matter of pride for me to be associated with Andhra Pradesh Tourism in promoting the tourist attractions of the State at domestic and international arena. It is a small and significant gesture on my part to convey my thanks and support to the State that has contributed to my success and supported me immensely.

During tournaments and training when I visit other places I hope to make use of every opportunity to mention about Andhra Pradesh and its tourism products and developments. It is matter of pride for me to convey the attractions of the State as Andhra Pradesh is very unique and the rapid developments that are taking place will position it as the preferred tourist destination in the world tourist map.

Just like sports, tourism destinations are driven by a competitive spirit to achieve the best possible results in international markets. In tourism, however, everyone can be winner-destinations, and given the myriad attractions of our Stat, I am confident that our State will be a sure winner."
                                                                                Ms Sania Mirza

"My acceptance in being the Ambassador of Andhra Pradesh Tourism is a matter of pride and honor for me.

I will use it as an opportunity to contribute to the development and promotion of my home State that has contributed immensely to what I am today. 

There is a symbiotic relationship between Sports and Tourism. As more and more people are aware of the State, its infrastructure and the players it becomes the venue for prestigious events and likewise sporting events draw audience from far and near.

Andhra Pradesh has all the resources to be a favored tourist destination be it leisure, religion or sports. 

Through my association I would like to contribute significantly to tourism promotion of the State. It will be pleasure and honour to convey at any given opportunity its attractions and my proud claim to the State. He said that he will promote AP tourism at the forthcoming Junior ABC tournament at Jakarta."
                                                                                   Mr. P Gopichand