In a time of geopolitical tensions, cross-border tourism in Southeast Asia remains a testament to the strength of regional cooperation and the commitment of neighbouring countries to bolster their tourism sectors.
Despite recent security concerns between Cambodia and Thailand, tourism officials in both countries remain focused on strengthening the people-to-people connections that have long been a cornerstone of their collaboration.
Dee Suvimol Thanasarakij, executive director of the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO), responded to questions regarding the impact of military confrontations at the Ta Moan Temple on tourism, noting that cooperation continues largely unaffected by broader political tensions.
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“The governments do not have any issues when it comes to tourism collaboration,” she said, underscoring that tourism professionals are solely focused on facilitating cross-border travel.
“Tourism is about bringing people together, and that’s what we’re doing—connecting tourists from Thailand to Cambodia and vice versa,” she added.
Thanasarakij addressed a regional workshop in Siem Reap province, hosted by the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF), Cambodia, to launch a flagship initiative aimed at promoting sustainable tourism, Destination Eco-Talents, from March 26to 28.
According to the workshop attendees, tourism professionals remain focused on the mutual benefits that tourism brings to local communities in both countries, providing jobs and creating revenue streams that improve the livelihoods of countless families.
A major part of the regional tourism strategy is the creation of innovative travel routes that span multiple countries in the Mekong region.
One of the most notable initiatives is the GMS Tourism Plan 2030, a collaborative effort between Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam.
Under the plan, new tourism trails have been developed to promote seamless travel across borders, with a focus on sustainable and community-based tourism.
“Through the Mekong Discovery Trail, travellers can explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region, from Cambodia’s Rattanakiri province to the serene landscapes of Laos and Thailand,” said Chuob Ratana, director of tourism development and planning.
“We are working on connecting tourists to local communities through immersive experiences like kayaking, trekking and eco-tourism activities, ensuring that tourism development is both sustainable and beneficial to rural communities,” he added.
Source: The Nation
