Phnom Penh : Minister of Tourism, Thong Khon has announced that the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2022 (ATF 2022) will be held in Sihanoukville on 16-22 January under the theme "ASEAN: Community of Peace and One Destiny". It is directed towards the restoration of tourism and the reopening of the sector in the region with resilience, sustainability and responsibility in the future.

Minister Khon says that the forum will include major events such as the National Tourism Organization, the ASEAN Tourism Ministers Meetings, the ASEAN Plus Three (Japan, South Korea and China) ASEAN Plus One (ASEAN-India) and possibly meetings with relevant partner organizations. It will also include ASEANTA Meetings and various seminars and events of the "TRAVEX" International Tourism Fair.

TRAVEX International Tourism Fair is the largest tourism business forum in ASEAN, which will take place on 19-20 January 2022 and will be attended by companies, sellers and buyers. According to the minister, this time could not be as big as before because of the Covid-19 problem. However, he says it is still necessary to promote the implementation of safety and health rules thoroughly in line with the new normal trajectory. The size number of people in all meetings and press conferences are set to be reduced.

 Minister Khon has stressed that the organization of the ASEAN Tourism Forum, both participants and hosts must ensure the implementation of the safety measures against Covid-19. There will bea planned routine for accommodation, eating and all activities. He has addrd that the selection of Sihanoukville as the venue for the 2022 ASEAN Tourism Forum is very appropriate as the coastal province has already built infrastructure in the coastal city.

Sihanoukville administration has also developed the beaches in the province. The area is rich in many small and large islands that allow tourists to visit safely away from crowds. Minister Khon emphasized that Sihanoukville could be a security destination for both public health and connected infrastructure.