Prime Minister Hun Manet laid out a comprehensive nine-point strategy aimed at revitalizing and expanding Cambodia’s tourism sector. This strategic framework was unveiled during his address at the 8th River Festival’s opening ceremony, held in Siem Reap Province.
The outlined strategy encompasses a broad spectrum of initiatives:
- The Prime Minister emphasized the critical role of peace as a foundational element for progress, urging the populace to collaborate with the government in preserving the nation’s peace and to resist any external or internal forces that might compromise it.
- He highlighted the importance of maintaining security and public order, stressing the consistent and effective implementation of the safe village-commune-Sangkats policy.
- He called for enhanced collaboration among ministries, institutions, development partners, and the private sector. This cooperative effort is essential for the successful execution of measures and policies under the special ‘Visit Siem Reap 2024’ program, guided by the ‘Dynamics of Stakeholder System’ model.
- The development of riverine areas, especially around the Mekong River and Tonle Sap Lake, was identified as a priority. The Prime Minister advocated for the construction of key tourism-supporting infrastructure, improved connectivity, and transportation enhancements in these regions.
- He urged the promotion of a diverse range of tourism products to stimulate ‘on-site exports,’ aligning with the government’s Pentagonal Strategy – Phase 1.
- The transformation of Phnom Kulen National Park into a premier destination for cultural, natural, adventure, and religious tourism was proposed. This initiative aims to enrich the variety of tourism offerings in Cambodia.
- The Prime Minister encouraged the development of strategies to foster gatherings, such as meetings, Vipassana sessions, and sports events in Siem Reap. These efforts are intended to contribute to the success of the ‘Visit Siem Reap 2024’ program and beyond.
- He advocated for cooperation among the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, the Ministry of Tourism, the State Secretariat of Civil Aviation, the General Department of Immigration, and the Siem Reap-Angkor International Airport Company. This collaboration is crucial for resolving issues related to national and international tourist travel, ensuring a seamless and welcoming experience for visitors.
- Finally, the Prime Minister called on all relevant ministries, institutions, local authorities, armed forces, citizens, and the private sector to actively contribute to the success of this year’s River Festival. He emphasized the importance of promoting tourism in line with the event’s themes: “River for Peace and Development,” “Together for Tourism,” and “Tourism for All.”
