The International Conference on Sustainable Tourism Development in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) countries, with Vietnam acting as its host, was held in northern Ninh Binh province, on November 18.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Ha Van Sieu, Deputy Director General of the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT), reiterated Vietnam’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with other GMS countries in data sharing, joint research and coordinated action to achieve shared sustainable development objectives.
He emphasized that Vietnam continues to stand out as a prominent and competitive destination in the region.
Mr. Sieu said that sustainable tourism has evolved from a global trend into a defining direction for the tourism sector, making the development of green, inclusive and responsible tourism an urgent priority. Sustainable tourism is essential not only for environmental and cultural protection but also for maintaining long-term competitiveness, the official noted.
According to him, the adoption of the GMS Tourism Development Strategy toward 2030 represents a significant milestone and sets a new trajectory for regional tourism cooperation. Vietnam is rolling out its 2023–2025 Green Tourism Development Program, targeting sustainable destinations and models, accelerating digital transformation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and ensuring tourism benefits are shared fairly with local communities, he said.
Mr. Etienne Jenni, Program Manager for Trade Promotion at the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), was quoted by the Vietnam News Agency as saying at the conference that Switzerland aims to promote tourism growth that delivers long-term economic, social and environmental benefits by improving policy frameworks, applying internationally recognized sustainability standards, enhancing the capacity of private tourism enterprises and developing advanced tourism and hospitality management skills.
The conference mainly focused on awareness and experience in sustainable tourism development in GMS countries, and GMS vision and actions for advancing sustainable tourism. Delegates shared successful tourism models, international standards that should be adopted, and ways to mobilize resources and boost international cooperation in the field; shaped a common vision and objectives for 2030; and underscored the role of the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office and the active participation of all stakeholders in implementing the region’s shared strategy.
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