Cambodia and Belgium are taking new steps to strengthen their tourism partnership while expanding cooperation through the global Francophonie community. During a meeting in Phnom Penh on Monday, Cambodia’s Minister of Tourism Huot Hak welcomed Belgian Ambassador to Cambodia Michel Parys to discuss practical ways to increase tourist arrivals, encourage investment, and prepare for Belgium’s participation in the 20th Francophonie Summit, which Cambodia will host this November. The meeting reflected both countries’ commitment to building stronger people to people connections while creating more opportunities for tourism and business.
The discussions also highlighted Cambodia’s growing reputation as a safe and attractive travel destination. With international tourism steadily recovering, both governments are looking for new ways to promote travel, strengthen business partnerships, and showcase Cambodia to a wider audience through international events and tourism campaigns.
Cambodia Promotes Itself as a Safe Destination
During the meeting, Tourism Minister Huot Hak expressed appreciation for Belgium’s continued friendship and support. He emphasized Cambodia’s political stability and peaceful environment, describing the Kingdom as a welcoming destination for international visitors and investors alike.
The minister also highlighted the Ministry of Tourism’s ongoing promotional campaigns, including Kingdom of Wonder, Feel the Warmth and Visit Cambodia in Green Season. These initiatives are designed to encourage travelers to explore Cambodia throughout the year while experiencing its culture, heritage, natural attractions, and hospitality.
New Tourism Cooperation Plans Take Shape
Recognizing the growing number of Belgian visitors and hospitality investors, Minister Hak proposed several initiatives aimed at expanding tourism cooperation between the two countries.
The proposals include signing a formal tourism Memorandum of Understanding, organizing familiarization trips for Belgian media representatives and tour operators, holding a bilateral tourism investment forum, and encouraging direct business partnerships between tourism companies from both nations. These efforts are expected to strengthen travel promotion while opening new investment opportunities within Cambodia’s tourism sector.
Francophonie Summit Offers Greater International Exposure
A major focus of the discussion was the upcoming 20th Francophonie Summit, which Phnom Penh will host this November. The international gathering presents an opportunity for Cambodia to showcase its tourism potential to French speaking countries and strengthen diplomatic and cultural cooperation.
Belgian Ambassador Michel Parys confirmed that Belgium will send a high level delegation to attend the summit. He also said Belgium will actively participate in the Village Francophonie side event organized by Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism, further demonstrating the country’s commitment to closer cooperation.
Belgium Reaffirms Longstanding Friendship
Ambassador Parys noted that Cambodia and Belgium have maintained strong diplomatic relations since restoring official ties in 1992. He reaffirmed Belgium’s interest in expanding cooperation across multiple sectors, with tourism serving as an important pillar of the bilateral relationship.
As Cambodia prepares to welcome delegates from across the Francophone world, both countries see tourism as an effective way to deepen economic cooperation, strengthen cultural exchanges, and build lasting partnerships between businesses and communities.
Conclusion
The meeting between Cambodia and Belgium highlights a shared commitment to expanding tourism, encouraging investment, and strengthening international cooperation. With new initiatives under discussion and the Francophonie Summit approaching, Cambodia is positioning itself as a leading destination for global travelers while creating fresh opportunities for tourism businesses and investors. As bilateral ties continue to grow, both countries stand to benefit from stronger economic, cultural, and people centered partnerships.