PHNOM PENH: Turkmenistan is the first Central Asian country to attempt to boost reciprocal tourism with Cambodia after its ambassador discussed the possibility of direct flights at the Ministry of Tourism this week.

During courtesy call to Cambodia’s Minister of Tourism on August 14, Turkmenistan’s Ambassador to Cambodia, Muhammetnyyaz Mashalov discussed pathways to strengthening tourism between the two countries and lauded Cambodia’s current development as an opportunity to grow their relationship.

Minister of Tourism, Thong Khon, welcomed his visit and remarks while highlighting Cambodia’s peace, stability and development as contributors to Cambodia’s tourism recovery efforts post-Covid-19. He said that in 2023, Cambodia expects to receive about five million international tourists and cooperate with many countries to strengthen tourism relations and increase tourist activity even more. In the first seven months of 2023, Cambodia has already received more than three million international tourists.

The Turkmenistan Ambassador congratulated Cambodia on its achievements in reviving and promoting tourism as the number of tourists continues to grow. Recognizing the potential in reciprocal tourism, he proposed direct flights from his country to Siem Reap, which is expected to open a world-class international airport in October. The direct flight would allow Central Asians to experience the history and beauty of Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s most-visited World Heritage Site.

He also proposed organizing events in Cambodia and in Turkmenistan to educate people and businesses about tourism opportunities and to promote businesses working toward a shared goal of increasing the tourist flow in both countries.

Minister Thong Khon expressed full support of a shared vision for expanding tourism with Turkmenistan and pledged continued cooperation on the project. He suggested that the two countries sign a Memorandum of Understanding to map out an action plan to achieve the goals of both sides and to serve as a testament to the friendship and cooperation between them.