Laos and Cambodia join forces to boost tourism - Bangkok Post

Photo: Huot Hak Laos and Cambodia are stepping up tourism cooperation under the slogan “Two Countries, One Destination”, with plans to improve cross-border travel and promote joint tourism routes showcasing their natural attractions and cultural heritage.

The Lao delegation was led by Suansavanh Viyaket, Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, while Cambodia was represented by Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism. Tourism industry representatives from both countries also attended.

The meeting followed Ms Suansavanh’s visit to Cambodia’s Stung Treng province from Oct 18-20, during which she held discussions with Cambodian tourism officials on ways to strengthen cooperation and support tourism businesses in both countries.

Ms Suansavanh said Laos and Cambodia planned to improve transport infrastructure to make cross-border journeys more convenient and safer, while expanding opportunities to generate tourism revenue jointly. The countries also aim to streamline border crossings to allow tourists to travel between them more quickly.

The two ministers instructed tourism authorities in Champasak province and Stung Treng province to organise joint promotional activities under the “Two Countries, One Destination” slogan, with the aim of delivering tangible results for the tourism industries of both countries.

The initiative is intended to create more opportunities for tourism operators to showcase the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, turning these assets into valuable tourism experiences.

Proposed joint itineraries include routes linking Wat Phou in Champasak with Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Other attractions highlighted include Don Det, Tad Fane Waterfall, Khone Phapheng Falls and agricultural tourism sites in Paksong district, Laos.