Cambodia and Nepal have agreed to promote religious tourism together, focusing on Buddhism and potential direct flights between Phnom Penh and Lumbini. The ministers discussed tourism cooperation and shared development experiences. In 2024, Cambodia saw a significant increase in Nepalese visitors, signaling growing interest.

On March 19, Cambodia and Nepal committed to enhancing their religious tourism potential as detailed in a news release from Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism. The agreement was established during a meeting between Cambodia’s Tourism Minister Huot Hak and Nepal’s Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Pandey, in Phnom Penh.

Discussions focused on fostering cooperation in tourism, with an emphasis on promoting Cambodia’s Buddhist destinations and cultural heritage sites to Nepalese Buddhist pilgrims. The potential for direct flights between Phnom Penh and Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, was also considered.

During their meeting, the ministers exchanged insights on developing tourism products and enhancing human resources. There were discussions regarding the potential signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize their partnership in tourism.

According to a report by the Ministry of Tourism, Cambodia welcomed 6,404 Nepalese visitors in 2024, marking a significant year-on-year increase of 118 percent. This trend highlights the growing interest in travel and cultural exchange between the two nations.

The formal commitment between Cambodia and Nepal to enhance religious tourism reflects a strategic initiative to strengthen ties and promote cultural heritage. By focusing on Buddhist pilgrimage and considering logistical developments such as direct flights, both nations aim to increase tourism flows and ensure sustained growth in religious visitor numbers. The notable rise in Nepalese visitors to Cambodia in recent years underscores the potential of this collaboration for mutual benefit.

Original Source: www.thestar.com.my

Related posts:

Cambodia and Thailand Celebrate 75 Years of Diplomatic Relations with Football Match Xi Jinping Seeks to Strengthen China-Brazil Relations Ahead of G20 Summit Xi Jinping Highlights Strategic Importance of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway Project China and India: Partners in Mutual Success and Development