BEIRUT, April 22 (Xinhua) -- A traditional tourism festival opened on Monday in Tyre in southern Lebanon, with the participation of the United Nations Interim Forces in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

Lebanese and Palestinian dancing troops inspired citizens in the city with their creative folkloric dancing performances, according to Elnashra, an online independent newspaper.

The festival, launched by the Group "Tyre Gathers Us" in cooperation with the municipality and the culture ministry, also saw artistic performances by countries participating in the UNIFIL, including China, Indonesia and Malaysia.

The festival will last for one week and include an exhibition for art crafts and Lebanese traditional food.

UNIFIL Chief Stefano Del Col said that the UNIFIL will continue to support local citizens and municipalities in implementing traditional projects.

"We are proud of our relation with local citizens and we assure our full support for the Lebanese Army as a strategic partner," he said.