PHNOM PENH: Cambodia and India are launching a year-long initiative to boost tourism between the two countries. The “1st Cambodia-India Tourism Year 2024” kicks off today with an official ceremony in New Delhi.

Leading the Cambodian delegation is H.E. Sok Soken, Minister of Tourism. He's joined by representatives from the ministry, private sector businesses, and cultural artists. This prestigious group traveled to India aboard the very first direct flight from Phnom Penh to New Delhi, a new route launched by Cambodia Angkor Air.

The new service, which began yesterday, will operate four times a week initially. Cambodia Angkor Air anticipates increasing the frequency to seven flights weekly “by the end of the year,” according to the Ministry of Tourism.

New Flights, Strong Ties

The inaugural flight of Cambodia Angkor Air's Phnom Penh-New Delhi route was celebrated at Phnom Penh International Airport. Government officials from both Cambodia and India, along with aviation and tourism industry leaders, attended the event.

Deputy Prime Minister of Cambodia, H.E. Sante Pundit Neth Savoeun, emphasized the importance of the new route, stating, “This inaugural direct flight will significantly promote the social, cultural, and economic ties between Cambodia and India.”

Tourism on the Rise

Officials are optimistic that the new flights will significantly increase tourist arrivals in both countries. Cambodia's Ministry of Tourism reports a 25% year-on-year jump in Indian visitors during the first quarter of 2024, with over 20,560 Indians choosing Cambodia as their travel destination. The Cambodia-India Tourism Year 2024 is expected to further accelerate this positive trend.

This new connection is seen as a major boost for travel between the two nations. Shared cultural heritage, healthcare opportunities, and historical ties are all factors expected to drive passenger traffic. Benefits go beyond tourism, with the potential to strengthen economic and cultural ties, as Cambodia Angkor Air highlighted, “this connection will not only boost tourism but also foster deeper cultural and economic relations between both nations.”