Heads of delegations from GMS countries press the button to kick off the Mekong Tourism Forum 2024 (Photo: Organising Board)

H.E. Zhang Zheng, Deputy Minister of the Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism speaking at the event (Photo: Organising Board)

Addressing at the Forum, H.E. Zhang Zheng, Deputy Minister of the Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism said, China and the Mekong River countries have similar people-to-people relationships and the same interests and desire to seek unity, cooperation and promote development. China is always ready to share the benefits of cooperation to make cooperation in the Greater Mekong Subregion more dynamic and effective.

In 2023, the number of tourists from GMS countries to China will reach 16.42 million arrivals, accounting for about 10% of the total number of international visitor arrivals to China. This shows that the visitor market from the Sub-region is one of China's important source markets. The potential for tourism cooperation is also huge. China has now expanded tourism cooperation with many countries, created favourable visa conditions, and optimised payment services to improve the experience of foreign tourists.

Leaders taking souvenir photo (Photo: Organising Board)

To promote sub-regional tourism development, H.E. Zhang Zheng, Deputy Minister of the Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism suggested the parties work together to build a regional tourism brand and improve the resilience of tourism development. China is willing to strengthen cooperative connections with member countries, continue to build consensus, and promote tourism cooperation in the Sub-region to a new level.

Delegates attending the Forum (Photo: Organising Board)

Mr. Xiao Zhou Liu - Tripadvisor China CEO presented a speech “Visionary Journeys Redefining Tomorrow’s Travel”. The presentation was about the embark on a transformative journey through the evolving landscape of the travel industry, spotlighting the shift towards sustainable and conscious tourism. Discover how the industry is adapting to the new normal post-pandemic, and the evolving preferences of the conscious traveller. Uncover the latest market shifts and learn innovative strategies to thrive in this new era. This session is a roadmap to the future of travel, blending inspiration with practical insights for a world on the move.

Panel Discussion 1 (Photo: Organising Board)

Panel Discussion 1: "Crossing Bridges, Building Connections for Cultural Integration and Prosperity” focused on delving into the transformative power of tourism in bridging diverse cultures along the GMS corridor. This session will discuss the complex aspects of cultural integration and demonstrate how it supports strong, inclusive, and sustainable tourism, especially after the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Explore cutting-edge digital tools, policy innovations, and the untapped potential of secondary destinations, all while highlighting the pivotal role of community engagement in empowering local cultures, women, and minorities. The discussion will offer fresh insights into how tourism can be a conduit for deeper cross-cultural understanding and economic prosperity in one of the most culturally rich regions of the world.

Panel Discussion 2 (Photo: Organising Board)

Panel Discussion 2 “Unleashing Potential: Enhancing International Cooperation to Propel Tourism Growth" was about enhancing international cooperation and sustainable tourism in the Greater Mekong Subregion. The session will discuss the benefits and challenges of regional collaboration, focusing on economic growth, environmental sustainability, equitable distribution, and travel facilitation. Experts will address strategies for strengthening cooperation, such as policy harmonisation and sustainable practices, aiming to foster a unified, prosperous, and responsible future for GMS tourism.

Laos receiving the flag to host the Mekong Tourism Forum 2025 (Photo: Organising Board)

At the end of the Forum, Laos received the flag to host the Mekong Tourism Forum 2025. It is expected that the Mekong Tourism Forum 2025 will take place from 6th-8th May 2025 in Luang Brabang, Laos.

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