Laos, a Southeast Asian country traversed by the Mekong River and known for its mountainous terrain, French colonial architecture, hill tribe settlements, and Buddhist monasteries, is set to take on a pivotal role in the realm of tourism by hosting two major events: the 27th Meeting of ASEAN Tourism Ministers and the ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) 2024. Under the theme “Quality and Responsible Tourism – Sustaining ASEAN Future,” these events will unfold in the heart of Laos, the capital city of Vientiane.
Laos, as the designated ASEAN Chair for 2024, is diligently preparing to host the ATF 2024. This forum acts as a significant platform for member nations within the ASEAN bloc to engage in comprehensive discussions and collaborations concerning various facets of travel and tourism. These events underscore Laos’s unwavering commitment to the promotion of tourism, fostering regional cooperation, and strengthening its position within the ASEAN community.
Ms. Suanesavanh Vignaket, Lao Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism emphasized the substantial work that remains to be done, including refining the ATF 2024 action plan, creating an engaging travel program for delegates, and ensuring that local restaurants offer high-quality food in clean surroundings
Mr. Khom Douangchantha, Director General of the Tourism Marketing Department, reported significant progress in the preparations for the forum. In terms of participation, Ms. Sengsoda Vanthanouvong, Deputy Director-General of the Tourism Marketing Department, anticipates the involvement of around 350 businesses from Southeast Asia and approximately 200 visitors at the event.
Laos previously hosted the ASEAN Tourism Forum in 2004 and 2013. Minister Suanesavanh Vignaket considers hosting ATF 2024 as a significant opportunity to elevate Laos’s role in the international arena, promote the nation’s tourism regionally and globally, and align with the government’s socio-economic development policy. This event will also strengthen cooperation with other ASEAN member countries, dialogue partners, and international organizations, in line with the ASEAN Tourism Strategy for 2021-2025.
The forum’s opening ceremony will feature a diverse array of Lao cultural performances, including traditional haen music, singing, and a welcoming dance.
In addition to ATF 2024 and the 27th ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Meeting, Laos is gearing up for Visit Laos Year 2024, a nationwide tourism campaign aimed at showcasing the country’s attractions to international visitors. This campaign has set a target of attracting over 2.7 million tourists to Laos in 2024, underlining Laos’s commitment to becoming a top destination on the global tourism map.
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