Phnom Penh (FN), Mar. 16 – Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet affirmed that the 7th legislature's Royal Government maintains its prioritization of tourism as a key sector contributing to Cambodia's socio-economic development.

The premier spoke on Saturday (Mar. 16) at the opening ceremony of the 8th River Festival in Siem Reap Province.

“The 7th legislature's Royal Government reaffirms tourism as a priority sector crucial for Cambodia's socio-economic development. It generates job opportunities, boosts income for citizens, enhances on-spot exports, sustains economic growth, increases national revenue, and plays a vital role in cultural preservation and responsible management of natural resources,” the premier underlined.

Premier Hun Manet added that tourism has been a significant catalyst in Cambodia's economic growth over the past 30 years, contributing to a remarkable 13-fold increase in GDP from 1993 to 2023.

On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei expressed optimism that tourism will significantly contribute to the goals of the Pentagon-Phase 1 strategy, especially contributing to the achievement of Cambodia's vision to become a high-income country by 2030.

Samdech Thipadei also expressed profound appreciation for the Ministry of Tourism's endeavours under Sok Soken's leadership over the past six months. This includes the introduction of new strategic plans, initiatives, and reform directions aimed at fostering the growth of a competitive, sustainable, and eco-friendly tourism sector.

According to Tourism Minister Sok Soken, Cambodia welcomed 5.45 million international tourists in 2023. He expressed hope that the country's international visitor numbers would rebound to pre-COVID19 levels by 2025.
=FRESH NEWS