~ The event also marked the debut of the direct flight route between Phnom Penh and New Delhi ~
Inauguration of Cambodia-India Tourism Year
On Monday, the first-ever ‘Cambodia-India Tourism Year’ got underway in New Delhi. This occasion also marked the beginning of Cambodia Angkor Air’s direct flight service, which started one day earlier, between Phnom Penh and New Delhi. Manisha Saxena, the Director General of the Indian Ministry of Tourism, and Long Phirum, the Secretary of State of the Ministry of Tourism in Cambodia, conducted the event.
Significance of the Event
During their speeches to an audience comprising government officials, tour operators from both nations and Indian business leaders, Saxena and Phirum stressed the importance of this venture. Phirum, speaking in Cambodian, underscored the naming of 2024 as the ‘Cambodia-India Tourism Year’ as a “pivotal moment.” She also mentioned the celebration in Phnom Penh of the new direct air connection between the capitals.
Direct Flights by Cambodia Angkor Air
Cambodia On June 16, the national airline of Cambodia, Angkor Air, began operating direct flights from Phnom Penh to New Delhi. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays are the four days a week that these flights are planned to operate. On this inaugural trip, several delegates from Cambodia landed in India.
Key Attendees at the Event
The gathering in Delhi also saw the presence of Cambodian Ambassador Koy Kuong and Seila Hul, Under Secretary of State, Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia. Their attendance highlighted the significance of this bilateral endeavour and the enthusiasm surrounding the new direct flight service.
Economic and Cultural Prospects
Manisha Saxena expressed optimism about the benefits that the new flight service and the ‘Cambodia-India Tourism Year’ will bring. She noted that these initiatives would help citizens of both countries rediscover their shared heritage, enhance economic opportunities for tourism businesses, and promote mutual prosperity and understanding.
Historical Connections
The historical ties between India and Cambodia were a central theme of the event. References were made to the profound cultural and religious connections that have existed for over a millennium. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has frequently emphasized the significance of these ties, especially during the Cambodian Prime Minister’s visit to India in January 2018, where both leaders agreed to improve connectivity and collaboration in tourism.
Foundations for Continued Cooperation
The Memorandum of Understanding signed between India and Cambodia in 2015 has been crucial in establishing a strong foundation for ongoing tourism cooperation. This commitment was further demonstrated by the fourth joint working group meeting held in February 2024. Key areas of focus included information sharing on tourist arrivals, infrastructure development, training programs in tourism and hospitality, and exploring joint venture partnerships in the hotel industry.
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