Tourism Minister Is Optimistic over Increasing Number of Tourists in Coastal Areas in Cambodia

Tourism Minister H.E. Thong Khon is optimistic about an increase of tourists in the coastal areas in Cambodia, saying that the number will rise from 6 to 10 percent.

The minister told reporters on May 30 that his optimism about the increase is on account of the assistance from the World’s Most Beautiful Bay Club after Cambodia’s coastline officially recognized and the great effort made by Cambodia in broadcasting tourism.The coastal areas will be the second destination for tourists after the Angkor Wat Temple in Siem Reap province, he said.

The minister also elaborated on the benefit of the club’s recognition, saying that when the coastal areas are well managed, the marine resources will be maintained safely.In addition, he said, the local people will gain the benefit from the transport service given to the tourists who visit the areas.

The tourism minister returned home on May 26 after participating in the 7th meeting of the World’s Most Beautiful Bay Club held in Senegal in Africa, in which a certificate as a member was awarded to Cambodia.

Cambodia’s coastlines were among the 33 world’s most beautiful bays. Cambodia has some 450 kilometers of coastal areas stretching in four provinces of Koh Kong, Preah Sihanouk, Kampot and Kep.

Tourism industry is one of four main economic pillars formulated by the Royal Government of Cambodia in the national development, receiving 2.5 million foreign tourists in 2010 generating the total revenue of US$1.75 billion.

Source = khpost.com