Embassy News / Events

Signing Ceremony of MoU on Developing Mobile Application to Promote Tourism & Ecotourism Communities” and “Enhancing Ecotourism Activities in Phat Sanday Ecotourism Community in Kampong Thom Province

EMBASSY OF INDIA

PHNOM PENH

PRESS RELEASE

Developing Mobile Application to Promote Tourism & Ecotourism Communities” and “Enhancing Ecotourism Activities in Phat Sanday Ecotourism Community in Kampong Thom Province”.

On 1st April, 2022, two memoranda of Understanding were signed by H.E. Dr. Devyani Khobragade, Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Cambodia, with H. E. Thong Rathasak, Director-General of International Cooperation & Tourism Development, Ministry of Tourism, Royal Government of Cambodia, on 1st April, 2022, for Quick Impact Projects(QIP) on “ Developing Mobile Application to Promote Tourism & Ecotourism Communities” and “Enhancing Ecotourism Activities in Phat Sanday Ecotourism Community in Kampong Thom Province”. The ceremony was held at Ministry of Tourism and graced by H . E. Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism, Royal Government of Cambodia , many senior officials of the Ministry of Tourism , besides other distinguished guests.

2.  The project on Phat Sanday Ecotourism will strengthen the survival of Phat Sanday ecotourism community. This would also encourage local community not to involve anymore in illegal activities like fishing in prohibited areas and deforestation. The project will also enhance the participation of women in workforce.

3.  The project on Developing Mobile application, aims to develop a dynamic Mobile App, which would be a common platform to promote tourism and ecotourism communities throughout the country.

4.  This initiative, is a part of Government of India’s Quick Impact Project (QIP) Scheme under the framework of Mekong Ganga Cooperation .Government of India cooperates with the Royal Government of Cambodia on many grant assistance programmes that contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of the people of Cambodia. Under QIP Scheme, the Government of India implements 10 projects every year in Cambodia by providing a funding of up to US$ 50,000/- each per project.  Since 2015-16, the Government of India has approved 46 projects in the fields of IT, agriculture, health, sanitation, women’s empowerment, child welfare, rural development, social infrastructure (including capacity building), environment, etc.  Out of 46 projects, 21 projects have already been completed and the remaining 25 projects are at various stages of execution. These projects have received overwhelming response and created a distinct and visible impact not only among the beneficiaries but also in the larger community.

5.  Speaking on the occasion, H . E. Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism, thanked the Government of India and Embassy of India for considering the projects and signing the MoUs within a short period. Dr. Thong elaborated on the steps announced by the Cambodian Government towards easing the arrival of tourists in Cambodia. In this context, Dr. Thong requested the Indian Ambassador for increased arrival of Indian tourists. Dr Thong stated that for commencement of chartered flights operation between two countries, M/o Tourism would provide necessary assistance. Dr. Thong also sought Indian Government assistance in reorganizing the Trail of Civilization. Dr. Thong stated that these projects would lead to increased tourist footfall and thereby immensely benefit tourism in Cambodia.

6.  While expressing her appreciation on signing of the MoU, H.E. Dr. Devyani Khobragade, Ambassador of India, stated that these projects would be completed in one year. Ambassador stated that these projects are a part of Government of India development initiatives and empower the lives of Cambodians. Ambassador further stated that the projects lead to enhancement of the overall bilateral relationship and good will between the people of India and Cambodia. Ambassador stated that both countries need to work towards achieving direct air connectivity. Ambassador stated that both sides should endeavour to start chartered flights that may cover Buddhist tourist sites in India and Siem Reap in Cambodia. Related to the Trail of Civilization, Ambassador requested the Minister to further share , so that both the countries can  take the proposal forward. Ambassador also mentioned that the Embassy  looks forward to signing of the third QIP. on “Enhancing tourism development in Prey Veng Province”.  In the year 2022, the focus of QIPs will be on health, tourism development and education particularly digital education focus on women.

 

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