THE KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA

WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016

                                                                                               

                                                              

                         

2016 WORLD TOURISM AWARDS CEREMONY

HOSTED

CAMBODIA - WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016


On 22 June 2016 the world tourism community had celebrated the world level achievers in tourism and culture in a glittering display hosted by the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh.


On this felicitous momentum for world tourism the Kingdom of cambodia was officially crowned as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 and universally acclaimed as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2016.

The ceremony reunited the alph and omega of world tourism and offered renewed expectation for the tourism development in the next years.

The event had concluded the official visit of World Tourism Institutes delegations in the country. 



The President of European Council on Tourism and Trade, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, had led an official delegation representing the World Tourism Institutes: European Tourism Academy and European Council on Tourism and Trade to a tour of Kingdom of Cambodia cultural and historical patrimony, in order to evaluate the country destiny as a tourism power house in Indochina region.

 


Prime Minister of The Kingodm of Cambodia, Academician Dr. HUN SEN held up high the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION certificate. 

For all the world to see !

 

The visit of the world tourism representatives had taken place between 15 and 25 June 2016, offering them the possibility to evaluate the tourism and cultural potential of theKingdom of Cambodia – country declared FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2016. 

The representatives of World Tourism Institution – European Council on Tourism and Trade started their familiarization trip in the country, in the famous province of Siem Reap, home of famous Angkor temples and palaces.

 


 The head of European Council on Tourism and Ttrade, President Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea and his delegates receiving a replica of Jayavarman the VII-Emperor of Angkor statue from Chairman of Siem Reap Province Mr. Nou Phalla.

 

The visit of European high level delegates to Siem Reap was accompanied by the diligent staff of Minister of Tourism of Cambodia and the Chairman of Siem Reap Province Mr. Nou Phalla.

 

A dense and perfectly carved cultural program presented the main attractions of the regions like: the world-famous architectural treasures of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom, the incredible magnificent construction of Bayon temple, the rich views of the red temple of Banteay Srei and the cosmic images of a vegetation invaded temple at Ta Prohm. 



 The magnificent Temple of TA PROHM. 

 

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea- President of European Council on Tourism and Trade had voiced his enthusiasm for the province cultural and historical potential in no uncertain terms: Angkor is the place where God`s and Kings, together, build not only a powerful kingdom, not only a long-lost way of life, but another understanding of the role and potential of human civilization.

 

The builders of Angkor proved to us, that the humanity knows no boundaries, no limitation in constructing kingdoms with no equal under the sun.


Siem Reap is the house of every person who appreciates civilization and a must see in a life time, concluded his press statement ECTT President. 


President Dr. Anton Caragea outlines the simple truth: Siem Reap is the house of all who love culture! 

 

On 17 June, a special dinner was offered to the delegates by the office of Governor of Siem Reap Province. 

During the celebratory feast, an ample array of music, cultural tradition and costumes from the region was displayed for the high guests.


The next leg of the journey in the magic Kingdom of Cambodia was the familiarization trip around Phnom Penh. 

The Cambodia`s capital meet the delegates with a perfect sky line, with the astonishing atmosphere of a bustling Southern Asian city and with incredible aroma, mixing monsoon air with mango and jasmine flowers, a secret aroma that only Phnom Penh has the mastery off.


The visit included a tour of the Wat Phnom, a discovery trip to the hustle and bustle of Central Market, a must stop at Phsar Tuol Tom Pong better known as Russian Market and a bird’s eye view of the awe-inspiring city monuments like: Independence Monument, the new governmental quarter of Peace Palace etc.



Royal Palace in Phnom Penh. A stand-alone point in the European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation visit to Cambodia`s Capital.

 

Phnom Penh also presented to the enchanted visitors, the gem of the city: the Royal Palace, a long lay over where the European delegates took the time to admire the Audience room, the palace grounds, the palace gardens, the ballet and concert hall, the administration rooms, the museum of royal regalia and paid respects to the funerary stupa`s of former Kings of Cambodia.

 

A moment of silence was observed for the stupa of the latest king of Cambodia, Norodom Sihanuk, the king who was in the same time: cineaste, prime minister, party leader, king, prince, television and show man and has put his imprint on Cambodia`s XX century story.

 


H.E. Pak Sokhom, Deputy Minister of Tourism warmly welcomes European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation at Phnom Penh Airport.

 

The former capital of XVII to XIX century Cambodia, the city of Udong, has also received the world tourism high delegates, who took time to explore the Buddha Temple, the stupa`s of King Monivong and the ensemble of temples and Buddhist learning institutes on the ground and admired the ample view from Udong mountain. 


The European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates also attended a host of important meeting with the government staff, with an ample dialogue at Minister of Tourism of Cambodia together with H.E. Minister Dr. Thong Khon. 


An ample program of exchanges and continuous support was established with specialists from European Council on Tourism and Trade offering expertise for a development master plan, for an eco-system protection area law and to establish a tourism institute and tourism training facilities on the Kingdom in order to meet the ever-increasing needs of tourism and hospitality expertise for the tourism industry of the Kingdom. 


Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, in his capacity of World Ambassador for Natural Protected Areas was also requested to assist the Kingdom in drafting a natural areas and natural parks conservation law at international standards. 


The meeting, with the able and competent personal of Minister of Tourism was especially a pleasurable one.

 

Dr. Thong Khon, Tourism Minister of Cambodia was specially praised by Professor Dr. Anton Caragea for his vision and astute policies and devotion to the country development, under the glowing leadership of Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Dr. HUN SEN. 



 Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade is congratulating Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism of Kingdom of Cambodia for long-standing efforts in promoting the country tourism potential.

 

The most important political moment, in European Council on Tourism and Trade delegation visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia, was the meeting of the delegates headed by H.E. President Dr. Anton Caragea with H.E. Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo – Dr. HUN SEN. 

 

During the leaders conversation, the long history of Cambodia renaissance in XXI century, under the able leadership of Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Dr. HUN SEN was warmly evoked.



Discussing the future of Cambodia and world tourism: leaders of world tourism at the same table: H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and H.E. Minister Thong Khon and their teams. 

 

President Anton Caragea remarked that we are in the presence of a historical leader, of a person who rebuild it Cambodia from zero to hero status, and was always a symbol of the country resistance. 

On 22 June 2016, the official ceremonies of handover of WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION AWARD insignia to the highest representative of people and government of Cambodia: H.E. Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Dr. HUN SEN has taken place on the venue of Peace Palace in Phnom Penh. 



Cambodia is FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2016 announces H.E. President Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

Congratulatory speeches were presented by Minister of Tourism of Cambodia-Dr. Thong Khon, ECTT President- Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, and European Tourism Academy-Academician Mircea Constantinescu.

 

The official acceptance allocution was delivered, on behalf of people of Cambodia by H.E. Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Dr. HUN SEN.

 


 Cambodia is entrusted with WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION title for a year.

 

The first part of ceremonies concluded with the official world recognition of Dr. HUN SEN, for his life work for the people of Cambodia and for international community as a WORLD LEADER OF TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT and the official handover of the ACADEMICIAN status regalia to Samdech HUN SEN by the Academician Mircea Constantinescu.



A new world leader in tourism and development: H.E. Academician Dr. HUN SEN- Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo-Prime Minister of Cambodia.

 

The second part of the ceremonies dedicated to enfeoffment of Cambodia as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION IN 2016, took place in the presence of the Royal Government of Cambodia, on 22 June 2016 and offered a magical display of the kingdom bounty of cultural and artistic treasures.

 

Tourism presentation movies, highlighting Cambodia`s unrivalled riches were interspersed with modern music and with universal values dances like: ASPARA dances (UNESCO immaterial heritage), Rice harvest dance, magic flowers dance etc, that put at the fore the riches and plentifulness of Cambodia srok Khmer, Khmer nation potential. 



APSARA dances for FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION and WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION 2016 awards ceremonies.

 

President Dr. Anton Caragea remarked in his speech that: In our decision to crown the diamond of Asia: Cambodia as World Best Tourist Destination, we did not forget for a moment that we are not encouraging people to go in strange and un-familiar place.

 

No, we are just telling them to discover a people, world-renowned for his hospitality, familiarity and openness to strangers: the Khmer people! 


They will make you feel that you are rediscovering your home, that you are finding long-lost friends and families, that you are visiting you abode-Cambodia. 



European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates together with Cambodia`s Minister of Tourism team on the stage of WORLD BEST TOURISM AWARDS ceremony. 

 

The visit of European Council on Tourism and Trade delegates offered, to the Kingdom of Cambodia, a perfect occasion to display to the world community the cultural values, the historical patrimony, the traditions and costumes of the Khmer people, placing the country among the nation’s most endowed with a perfect touristic and human potential that must be the base for a future development of Cambodia: The KINGDOM OF WONDERS – WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION FOR 2016.



Apsara dance for Cambodia-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016

 (Phnom Penh-22 June 2016)

 


Cambodia-World Favorite Cultural Destination 2016 

ROYAL CAMBODIAN BALET enthralled viewers attending WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION AWARDS for 2016.


 ECTT President Dr. Anton Caragea on the platform of Cambodia-Favorite Cultural Destination with Royal Opera from Phnom Penh. 

President Dr. Anton Caragea and Minister Thong Khon are offering congratulations to the outstanding performers on WORLD TOURISM AWARDS show.


  World Tourism Institution President and Prime Minister of Cambodia-Dr. HUN SEN 

Prime Minister of Cambodia: Academician HUN SEN, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei techo and President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-European Council on Tourism and Trade.

 


 H.E. Pak Sokhom – Deputy Minister of Tourism takes a photo with actors and singers on the stage of WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION for 2016: Kingdom of Cambodia. 



 H.E. Tourism Minister Thong Khong on the venue of WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION and FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION for 2016.



 World Tourism Institution President-Professor Dr. Anton on the venue of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION ceremony. 

H.E. President Dr. Anton Caragea on the venue of WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION and FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION for 2016.


 


WORLD CULTURAL INSTITUTIONS ARE WITNESSING ACADEMICIAN DR. HUN SEN

 ACCEPTANCE SPEECH FOR EUROPEAN ACADEMY

The Office of The President of European Council on Tourism and Trade together with Office of the Director of The European Tourism Academy announced the selection of H.E. HUN SEN- SAMDECH AKKA MOHA SENA PADEI TECHO, Prime Minister of Cambodia as the newest member of EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY.


This international recognitions come for his role in promoting fair tourism, cultural legacy heritage, hosting 2015 World Tourism and Culture conference and for decision to uphold the principles of European Tourism Academy: to support education, to foster education, to encourage global action and citizenship via education development, to uphold the system of higher education, to advance peace, sustainability and development on world arena. The official handover of the baton had taken place on 22 June 2016 on the venue of the WORLD TOURISM AWARDS CEREMONY for 2016.


On this occasion the new world academician had outlined his vision on tourism future and on Cambodia`s continous growth and development. 


SPEECH 

By 

Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN 

Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia 

At the 

Celebration of Cambodia’s winning of World Best Tourist Destination 

Award for 2016 and the Declaration of Cambodia as “a Favorite Cultural Destination in 2016” 



Academician Dr. HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Cambodia, surrounded with love and respect on the platform of WORD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION CEREMONY for 2016. 

Peace Palace, June 22, 2016, Phnom Penh

 

– H.E. Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade 

– Distinguished National and International Guests! 


Today, I am delighted to participate in the ceremony to celebrate Cambodia being awarded “World Best Tourist Destination 2016 Award” and the Inauguration of “Cambodia as a Favorite Cultural Destination in 2016”, along with the first Competition on “First Good Hospitality”. 


At the outset, I would like to extend a very warm welcome the delegation of the European Council on Tourism and Trade to this event. 


I would like to also express my gratitude and appreciation to H.E. Dr. Anton Caragea, President of the European Council on Tourism and Trade and his colleagues for creating this highly important award which will help promote Cambodia tourism. 


I also thank the European Council on Tourism and Trade for electing me as an honorary member of the European Tourism Academy. 


On behalf of the Royal Government and People of Cambodia, I am really proud that the Kingdom of Cambodia has been awarded the World Best Tourist Destination 2016 Award along with the declaration of “Cambodia as a Popular Cultural Destination in 2016”.



 Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN is entrusted with CRISTAL TROPHY, sign of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD for 2016 by H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, European Council on Tourism and Trade President.

 

This result indeed attests to real situation of Cambodia and the wonder of Cambodia as “Culture and Nature” tourist destination which is now a major tourist destination in Asia and Southeast Asia, a region that is enjoying high tourism growth thanks to richness of culture, history and nature.

 

Cambodia has indeed been playing a key role in connecting this regional and highly attractive tourism network. 


Overall, the temple of Angkor which is the heritage of humanity and the wonder of the world, the temple of Preah Vihear which is of outstanding universal value, the temple of Sambor Prei Kuk and thousands of other temples within the country and vast natural resources along Cambodia’s Beaches that have been awarded the world most beautiful beaches, Mekong River which has freshwater dolphins, eco-tourism region in the northeastern and southeastern Cambodia, Tonle Sap Lake, traditions and customs and the friendliness of the people, couples with security and safety factors within the country are the great magnet for tourists.

 

Those factors help Cambodia live up to its international recognition as “Kingdom of Wonder”. 



 Academician Dr. HUN SEN raises high n the air the HONORARY ACADEMICIAN CERTIFICATE to be observed by the audience of WORLD TOURISM AWARDS ceremonies. 


As raised by H.E. Dr. Anton Caragea that Cambodia deserves the reputation of “The Kingdom of Wonder” and this reputation has noticeably contributed to the development of tourism sector in Cambodia within this last two decades. In fact, the revenue that comes from tourism sector is a significant contribution to Cambodia’s macroeconomic stability and socio-economic progress and help promote the growth of some supporting sectors such as agriculture, trade, infrastructure and SMEs.

 

Furthermore, the development of tourism sector has generated revenue that support culture conservation and protection of environment and natural resource in effective and responsible way. 


With this, I would like to thank the European Council on Tourism and Trade for considering “Cambodia: A Global Role Model of Equitable Distribution of Income from Tourism Development”.

 



Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN delivers the enlighten declaration for WORLD TOURISM AWARDS ceremony in 2016.

 

With this spirit, Cambodia is committed to developing its tourism sector in a sustainable, responsible and equitable manner that contributes to economic growth and poverty reduction and responds to climate change.

 

This “Green Gold” will pay an important role in accomplishing the UN’s sustainable development goals 2030.


On its part, Cambodia will be active and pro-active in grabbing opportunities arising from its wonder as the world tourist destination. 


This helps ensure not only socio-economic benefits, high income for the people and sustainable development, but also the protection of cultural and natural resources, in short “Cambodia’s wonder serves tourism, tourism serves Cambodia’s wonder”.


Excellencies, Ladies, Gentlemen!


It is undeniable that although the government has strived hard as stated above, the success of tourism sector would have never been achieved without active participation from private sector and Cambodian people. In this regards, we can say that this positive result is mainly attributed to our concerted effort, unity and ownership.


Hence, to continue promoting tourism sector in Cambodia to become the “World Best Tourist Destination” and “Tourist Destination with Warm Hospitality”, on behalf of the Royal Government of Cambodia, I would like to give some recommendations as follows: 



Business community is called to support Prime Minister Hun Sen vision and World Best Tourist Destination status. 

Cambodia economy is booming and they are requested to add their intake. 

 

1st. I am of the view that today’s success in tourism development, especially Cambodia’s attractiveness proclaimed as the world‘s best tourist destination rely on smiling and friendly faces of those at the front ranging from flight services, international border checkpoints, accommodation, food, entertainment and so on. 

Therefore, the contest “Good Hospitality” is a new national agenda, and we need to understand that “Hospitality is our obligation” and hospitality is what we can do immediately with our requiring any means. 


Furthermore, to make Cambodia the world tourist destination that welcomes 7 million international tourists by 2020 and hosts SEA Game in 2023, I wish to urge all the relevant parties to participate actively in the contest “Good Hospitality”, including (1). Good hospitality in tourism services, (2). Good hospitality in public service in clean city and (3). Good hospitality of migration official at international border checkpoints. 



Cambodia Royal Army attends WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION 2016 CEREMONIES.

 

2nd. At this moment, I would like to announce the campaign “Cambodia: Kingdom of Wonder” along with slogan “providing warmth to tourists” to become a highly attractive advertisement to the world as well as an important message to increase the number of returning tourists to Cambodia.

 

3rd. The Royal Government of Cambodia is committed to further conserving natural and cultural resources as well as developing better tourist products and services in response to the context of regional and global integration. 


In this regards, I request that relevant ministries and institutions pay attention to protecting invaluable cultural and natural resources.



 International Community express support for World Best Tourist Destination-Cambodia

 Hundreds of international diplomats are witnessing the crowning of Cambodia as a world symbol: WOLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION and FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2016. 

 

Furthermore, they also have to ensure that every tourism-related development and construction in the conservation, heritage and protected areas as well as coastal areas must comply with the principles of sustainability, culture and tradition, and certain regulation while responding to environmental and climate change issues.

 

4th. On top of the protection of natural and cultural resources together with this friendliness, I suggest all relevant parties to continue their active participation in the campaign “Clean Cambodia, Green Cambodia” by actively supporting the movement contest “Clean City, Clean Resort, Good Service, Good Hospitality”. 


5th. To contribute to the promotion of tourism competitiveness in Cambodia, the Ministry of Tourism must strive to cooperate with relevant institutions to further develop creative and innovative tourist products and create more package tours to make Cambodia become the “center of regional tourism”.



Win Win policies of Prime Minister HUN SEN attracted international acclamation and support. 

The win -win policy of Academician Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN is regarded as a world model of diplomacy by all international diplomats present on the venue of WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION ceremony.

 

In this regard, I would like to request the European Council on Tourism and Trade and private partners to continue supporting Cambodia in the advertisement of tourism development and attract more European and international investors and tourists to Cambodia.


6th. To transform Cambodia into the world’s tourist destination, it is required to take into account the quality of tourism services and green standard of each service, coupled with sufficient and skilled human resources. 


In this sense, I would like to request H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and H.E. Mircea Constantinescu, Head of European Tourism Academy, to cooperate and support Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism to further study and develop tourism standards, strengthen and develop human resources in tourism sector, as well as to conduct tourism study and research more comprehensively while the sector rapidly develops in globalization context. 


Once again, I strongly believe that Cambodia, with this invaluable award, would become a warm and attractive tourist destination with good welfare provided to tourists and people.



Young people of Cambodia are the main beneficiaries of Prime Minister Hun Sen policies and of World Best Tourist Destination status.

The youth of Cambodia are at the center of Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN policies and vision. 

 

Moreover, it would also become an attractive green tourist destination with friendly and smiling faces, which can be named as “Cambodia: the Kingdom of Smiles”, and this helps raise Cambodia’s reputation and prestige as “Cambodia: Kingdom of Wonder” in international arena.

 

Finally, along with the award celebration of “Cambodia: the World’s Best Tourist Destination for 2016”, coupled with the announcement of “Cambodia: Favorite Cultural Destination for 2016” and the movement contest of “First Good Hospitality”, I wish H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and senior delegation of the European Council on Tourism and Trade happiness, prosperity and success in every undertaking.



Academician HUN SEN express his gratitude for European Council on Tourism and Trade

 Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, World Tourism and Development Leader, is marking the opening of WORLD TOURISM AWARDS ceremonies for 2016. 

 

At the same time, I also wish Excellencies, ladies, gentlemen and all participants the four gems of Buddha’s blessings: Longevity, Nobility, Health and Strength.



MINISTER THONG KHON IS PRESENTING WELCOMING DECLARATION FOR

 CAMBODIA-WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION IN 2016

 On 22 June 2016 the world tourism community had celebrated the world level achievers in tourism and culture in a glittering display hosted by the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh.


The ceremony reunited the alfa and omega of world tourism and offered renewed expectation for the tourism development in the next years.


The opening statement for world tourism assemby was given by H.E. Minister Thong khon on begalf of hosting country: The Kingdom of Cambodia-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016


OPENING REMARKS

by H.E. Dr. THONG Khon, Minister of Tourism 

at Awarding Ceremony of “Cambodia-World Best Tourist Destination for 2016 and 

Favorite Cultural Destination for 2016”Awards 



Minister of Tourism Dr. Thong Khon is keeping the Opening speech for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD ceremony in Phnom Penh-22 June 2016.


Highly Respectful,

 

– Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia!

– Samdech, Excellencies, Lok Chumteavs, Deputy Prime Ministers, Senior Ministers, and Ministers! 

– H.E. Prof. Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade

 

– Excellencies, Lok Chumteavs, Ambassadors, Diplomatic Corps, 

Distinguished National and International Guests! 


Today, on behalf of leaders and officials of the Ministry of Tourism, and all distinguished participants of the ceremony and on my own behalf, we would like to proudly express our great pleasure and honor to Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia for taking his tight schedule with a mission to serve the country and people to highly preside over the auspicious Awarding Ceremony of “Cambodia-World Best Tourist Destination for 2016, and Favorite Cultural Destination for 2016” Awards. 


I would like to thanks Samdech, Excellencies, Lok Chumteavs, Deputy Prime Ministers, Senior Ministers, Ministers, Distinguished National and International Guests for participating in the meaningful awarding ceremony at this time.



Minister of Tourism Dr. Thong Khon is savoring a victory for Cambodia: Favorite Cultural Destination triumph and the fulfillment of the vision of Prime Minister Hun Sen.

 

Seizing this opportunity, I would like to voice my special thanks to the European Council on Tourism and Trade and Dr. Anton Caragea, as the President for awarding Cambodia the Awards of World Best Tourist Destination for 2016 and Favorite Cultural Destination for 2016 and to the European Tourism Academy for unanimously electing Samdech Techo Prime Minister as an Honorary Member of the European Tourism Academy


.– Highly Respectful Samdech Techo Prime Minister! 

– Excellencies, Lok Chumteavs, Ladies and Gentlemen!


Stemming from the “Win-Win” Policy of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Cambodia has enjoyed full peace, development in all sectors, particularly tourism has grown considerably over the last decade.


The tourism sector, which is considered as the green-gold is a sector sustaining socio-economic growth, creating jobs, and alleviating poverty of the people, and playing an important role as on-site exports, contributing to supporting the regional integration. 


Apparently, in 2015, we achieved a growth rate of 6.1% with arrival of international tourists of about 4.8 million and bringing revenue of more than US $ 3,000 million, and increasing employment opportunities for about 620 thousand people into the economy. 


Following the forecasts for 2020, international tourist arrivals are expected to rise to about 7 million people and bringing the total revenue of approximately US $ 5,000 million, creating job opportunities for nearly 1 million people. 


The subsequent boom of Cambodian tourism cannot be cut off from the country’s attractiveness as a tourist destination at regional and global levels. 


Obviously, in 2015, the world-class trip advisor (Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice) (Chosen based on voting by travelers on its website) has considered the Kingdom of Cambodia as the world’s most attractive tourist destination (World Award Winners 2014-2015).


Particularly, Angkor Wat Temple was ranked first in both Asia and the world as the most attractive one amongst the other 25 national identification marking tourist destinations in the world (Landmarks Award), and Siem Reap City was ranked first in Asia and second in the world as the most attractive tourist destination (Destination in the World). 


In 2016, Tripadvisor has also chosen the Siem Reap Province as the best Tourist Destination in Asia and selected Angkor Wat Temple as the Asia’s most attractive national identification marking tourist site (The Best Landmark in Asia). 


Especially, for Cambodian tourism, today it is a great honor for Cambodia being unanimously elected as the “World Best Tourist Destination for 2016” by the European Council on Tourism and Trade.


– Highly Respectful Samdech Techo Prime Minister! 

– Excellencies, Lok Chumteavs, Ladies and Gentlemen! 


I have a great honor to respectfully report to Samdech Techo Prime Minister that the European Council on Tourism and Trade was established in 2005, and has its headquarter in European Union, with a mission to promote tourism, investment and exchange of experiences and knowledge relevant to the tourism sector, particularly cultural tourism of Europe and the rest of the world. 


To support its activities, the Council created the award of “World Best Tourist Destination” yearly to promote the tourism sector in the countries who are qualified enough (with evaluations based on key indicators of potential natural and cultural tourism and direction as the policy of the candidate country). 


In general, after receiving the awards, the destination countries usually received significant tourism growth of European tourists.



1000 high ranking Cambodian representatives attend WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016.

 

For 2016, the Board of the European Council on Tourism and Trade reviewed and discussed the 29 candidates countries for the award-winning candidate of “World Best Tourist Destination for 2016” and decided unanimously to elect:

 

“Cambodia-World Best Tourist Destination for 2016” 

“Cambodia-Favorite Cultural Destination for 2016” 


Cambodia has been chosen as a winner for 2016, which is based on the wonders of Cambodia (Cambodia: Kingdom of Wonder), where is filled with the World Heritage of both tangible heritage (including Angkor Wat Temple and Preah Vihear Temple as the World Heritage) and intangible assets as the abundant natural potential (including mangrove forest preserved and conserved areas, and Ramsar areas) and natural smile and greeting of Cambodian people, along with the development of all sectors in Cambodia, under the brilliant and sound leadership of Samdech Techo Prime Minister, and especially the development of Cambodian tourism based on the proper policy and strategy, namely the commitments to sustainable and inclusive tourism development (Sustainability and Inclusiveness). 


The election of Samdech Techo Prime Minister as an Honorary Member of the European Tourism Academy is the most recognition of leadership perspective value of Samdech Techo in preserving and conserving the Cambodian cultural heritage and in encouraging Cambodian tourism development through ensuring the peace, political stability, Cambodian socio-economic development with significant progress for the nation of Cambodia. 


I would like to kindly inform the whole participants that in order to achieve the longterm vision and perspective for the development of Cambodian tourism, in particular as the tourist destination with sustainability, responsibility, and world-class attractiveness, the Royal Government set out the Law on Tourism. National Policy on Tourism, Tourism Development Strategic Plan 2012-2020. 


Under the spirit of the Law on Tourism and Tourism Development Strategic Plan 2012-2020, the Ministry of Tourism as the Cambodian Royal Government’s wing has launched the Tourism Reform Plan 2015-2018 by focusing on the priority angles:

(1). Strengthening the tourism industry, “One Service, One Standard” 

(2). Improving tourism promotion and attractive and creative tourism product development (By setting out Cambodian Tourism Marketing Strategy 2016-2020) 

(3). Improving human resource development in tourism sector “One Staff, One Skill” 

(4). Encouraging the use of information technology in tourism sector (E-tourism). 


In addition, we have the contest movement of “Clean City, Clean Resort, Good Service, Best Hospitality” as the core to encourage and increase the effective implementation of the tourism development strategic plan, as well as tourism reform plan through launching the Clean City Contest Movement in 2011, and Eco-business Contest Movement in tourism sector in 2015. 



Applauses for Minister Dr. Thong Khon and President Dr. Anton Caragea on the scene of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2016.

Hard work deserves recognition!

 

Particularly, today, with the high approval of the Royal Government, through the letter No.516 SCHN.PK dated May 30, 2016, for allowing for the preparation of the Best Hospitality Contest Movement and transforming the contest to the National Agenda by inspiring the citizens, officials, private sector, youth and development partners to join together in order to improve the service and hospitality better for contributing to the promotion of all tourist destinations in the Kingdom of Cambodia as the tourist destination with attractiveness, warmth, and providing memorable experiences for tourists with natural smile and greetings of Cambodian people.


– Highly Respectful Samdech Techo Prime Minister! 

– Excellencies, Lok Chumteavs, Ladies and Gentlemen! 


In order to make the Best Hospitality Contest Movement sustainable and widespread throughout the country and becoming the national agenda, all stakeholders (Public – private – youth – citizens) must join together to further promote the attractiveness of Cambodian tourism, as well as enhance the prestige of Cambodia “Cambodia: Kingdom of Wonder”, namely the Ministry of Tourism and the National Committee for Clean City Assessment have prepared “4” documents for supporting the contest movement and developed an online voting assessment system (www.cambodiabesthospitality.org). which allows the citizens and tourists to provide online comments (through linking to QR-Code): Service and Hospitality Provided by Tour Operators and Officials at International Checkpoints for Tourists, etc.



 – Highly Respectful Samdech Techo Prime Minister!

 – Excellencies, Lok Chumteavs, Ladies and Gentlemen!

 

In celebration of the award of Cambodia-World Best Tourist Destination and the launching of the Best Hospitality Contest Movement, the Ministry of Tourism and the National Committee for Clean City Assessment plan to launch various important tourism programs (in addition to programs and campaigns at present) as follow: 


Continuing the promotional campaign “Cambodia: Kingdom of Wonder” and the contest movement of “Clean City, Clean Resort, Good Service, Best Hospitality”. 


In collaboration with the relevant ministerial-institutions, the Ministry of Tourism will create a permanent tourism program under the name of “Cambodia-My Second Home” for welcoming the long-stay tourists and senior tourists and plans to cooperate with the Union of Youth Federation of Cambodia and relevant institutions to develop a program of “Cambodia: My Homeland” under the slogan of “Everyone can go”, which is the national program and contributes to pushing for a permanent program and encouraging the staffs, employees, employers, students, and youth to possibly arranging their trips at least 1 time per year, and a program of Cambodian Students-Tourism Ambassadors to be aimed at increasing more voluntary tourism activities in Cambodia. 


In order to increase the benefits of this award, the Ministry of Tourism plans to set up an Annual Photo Contest Program for tourist visiting Cambodia under the “Secret Trail of Cambodia” Program, which can be the tourists’ selfie photo or tourist destination photo contest in order to attract and promote the online promotion on Facebook, which is a digital marketing and promotion and to encourage to further love and conserve our natural and cultural heritage.



Moreover, the Ministry of Tourism will launch the Tourism Mobile App soon.

 

To support the “Best Hospitality” Contest Movement, while this movement is dependent on the involvement of people “People-Based Approach”, the Ministry of Tourism will create a training and best hospitality supporting program, named as “My Service, Your Smile” by encouraging all relevant stakeholders, including public institutions and private sector to make cooperation and develop the Best Hospitality training programs for officials, youth, and their staffs, who interact directly with customers and tourists (including beers and wedding ceremony supporting staffs.. etc.).


Meanwhile, to make this program successful, it requires the support and sponsors from the relevant stakeholders, private vocational training schools for the preparation of this training course. 


In order to ensure the principle of transparency, the provision of services with honesty, not fraudulent to clients and visitors, the Ministry of Tourism encourages local tourism businesses, relevant institutions, and private sector to set up a Code of Ethics for managing its employees to ensure the provision of professional and honest services.

 

So far, the Ministry of Tourism has set up the Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct for tour guides and already established a system of monitoring the implementation of this professional, and will continue to inspire and help other areas to set up this Code of Ethics.


– Highly Respectful Samdech Techo Prime Minister! 

– Excellencies, Lok Chumteavs, Ladies and Gentlemen! 


I have a great honor to respectfully inform that this celebration was attended by the relevant competent authorities, ministries and institutions, tour operators, youth, national and international organizations, and embassies with a total of 1,000 people. 


I would like to seize this opportunity, on behalf of the Ministry of Tourism, to express my profound gratitude to Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia for usually paying high attention to leading and encouraging Cambodian tourism development with sustainability and responsibility, especially supporting the contest movement of “Clean City, Clean Resort, Good Service, Best Hospitality”.



 Minister Thank Khon announces Cambodia is World Best Tourist Destination in 2016.

Cambodia is on the wave of international recognition and Tourism Minister is faithfully serving the country and bringing to light the vision of Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo – Academician HUN SEN.

 

On behalf of the Ministry of Tourism, I would like to deeply thank H.E. Dr. Prof. Anton Caragea, President of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, and his colleagues for awarding the awards of “Cambodia-World Best Tourist Destination for 2016, and Cambodia-Favorite Cultural Destination for 2016”, and the European Tourism Academy through Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, President of the European Tourism Academy for unanimously electing Samdech Techo Prime Minister as an Honorary Member of the European Tourism Academy.

 

We strongly believe that in the name of an honorary member of the European Tourism Academy, Cambodian tourism will be well-developed and more European tourists will make their visits to Cambodia, benefiting the socio-economic development in a sustainable manner. 


Last but not least, on behalf of the entire ceremony, and myself, I would like to respectfully wish Samdech Techo Prime Minister and Lok Chumteavs Kittipritbandit and their families healthy, wisdom, and strength in order to lead and develop Cambodia towards prosperity and happiness for the people.


Finally, May I wish Samdech, Excellencies, Lok Chumteavs, Ladies and Gentlemen the four gems of Buddhist Blessings: Longevity, Nobility, Health, and Strength.


Thank You!  



ACADEMICIAN PROFESSOR DR. ANTON CARAGEA ATTENDS  THE OFFICIAL CEREMONY TO RECOGNIZE CAMBODIA`S PRIME MINISTER DR. HUN SEN AS EUROPEAN ACADEMY LEADER. 

President Dr. Anton Caragea –European Council on Tourism and Trade, Academician Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy delivered a joint eulogy in the Phnom Penh Peace Palace on the occasion of the bestowing the prestigious title of ACADEMICIAN to Cambodia`s Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Dr. Hun Sen.



               WORLD TOURISM INSTITUTE has a new academician-H.E.Samdech HUN                                                                      SEN of Cambodia

President Dr. Anton Caragea –European Council on Tourism and Trade, Academician Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy presents Cambodia`s Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Dr. Hun Sen with ACADEMICIAN regalia.

 

World Tourism Institution-European Council on Tourism and Trade President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, took part in the ceremony awarding the ACADEMICIAN title to Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Dr. Hun Sen in the Peace Palace in Phnom Penh, together with European Tourism Academy Director-Academician Mircea Constantinescu and European Council on Tourism and Trade high ranking delegates: Pavel Avramoiu, Ioan Matei, ECTT Chairman -Mihai Prundianu. 


European Tourism Academy Director-Academician Mircea Constantinescu presents LAUDATIO for the new world academician Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Dr. Hun Sen.

 

The Kingdom of Cambodia Prime Minister has been awarded the HONORARY ACADEMICIAN title for “ in clear appreciation of your influential vision in carving cultural and heritage of Cambodia as conducive instruments in building tourism and in insuring development for your people.

 

This outstanding vision has being transformed in a general politic and enacted under your leadership as a world instrument for development during 2015- World Conference on Tourism and Culture ”.



Peace Palace in Phnom Penh offered the glamorous setting for ACADEMICIAN eulogy for Cambodia`s Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Dr. Hun Sen.

 

The Presidents of the two world tourism institutions – all of whom are themselves previous recipients of the Academician title – were invited to address a joint eulogy for this year’s laureate. 

In his part of the speech, President Anton Caragea underlined that Prime Minister of Cambodia -Samdech HUN SEN made it possible for the international community to carve out the first world level instruments in developing tourism, creating the basis of sustainable tourism on the pillars of cultural richness, religious tolerance and historical platform. 


In the new millennium Cultural and Historical Tourism becomes the beacon on which the life of billions of people’s is improved and enriched. 


Cultural tourism is today a part of nation building and an intricate part of the nation’s international image. 



World Tourism Institute head, President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea conferess with H.E. Cambodia`s Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo -Academician Dr. Hun Sen.

 

In today`s world, a nation cannot project his external dimension, and cannot imagine his diplomatic activity in the absence of promoting his historic patrimony and boost his cultural prowess.

 

All this policies being transformed in every day dimensions of international activity are fundamentally linked to your visions, your thoughts and your actions. 


You have succeeded in engraving your name on the golden list of cultural protectors, offering a special attention to historical patrimony of your country and use it, and preserve it for the benefit of the future generation. 


Your Excellency is part of the special HUMANITY PROTECTORS. 


Leaders that are grasping the importance of tourism as the most important part of diplomacy, international relations and raising national profile on world arena. 


These leaders must be supported and commanded and offered as a general example, concluded his remarks ECTT President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.



Humanity congratulates a new world leader for tourism and development: Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Dr. Hun Sen.

 

The award ceremony was preceded by a long discussion of the high ranking delegation with Prime Minister of Cambodia -Samdech HUN SEN.

 

It was followed by a joint press conference of President Dr. Anton Caragea Academician Mircea Constantinescu-Academy Director and Dr. Thong Khon, Minister of Tourism of Cambodia, country elected as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and WORLD`S FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION for 2016. 


President Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and Academician Mircea Constantinescu also wrote a joint articles on this occasion, articles published in several European and world newspapers. 


They highlight the message of hope that Cambodia has sent to the world as the country: was lifted from the brink of extinction to another horizon of hope and future development and Khmer people is building today the new temples of Phnom Penh: a steel and glass city that will echo the buildings of the past. 


This statement of confidence in the bright future of Khmer nation and practical measures put in place, made your country succeeding in the 2016- WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD competition and be accepted as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION for your nations incredible weight of culture, history prowess and contribution to humanity legacy. 


This is a new momentous achievement for CAMBODIA, a moment that is due to your exertions. 


The membership in the European Tourism Academy is awarded every year to honour exceptional work performed in the service of world culture, tourism development and protection of historical patrimony.






ACADEMICIAN MIRCEA CONSTANTINESCU  DELIVERS THE ACCEPTANCE SPEECH FOR EUROPE`S NEWEST ACADEMICIAN: DR. HUN SEN

PRIME MINISTER OF KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA


LAUDATIO for H.E. Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Hun Sen, 

Prime Minister of Royal Government of Cambodia 

EUROPEAN ACADEMICIAN

 


Academician Mircea Constantinescu LAUDATIO for H.E. Prime Minister of CAMBODIA


 

Your Excellency Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Hun Sen,

Prime Minister of Royal Government of Cambodia, 

Members of the Cambodian Parliament and members of the Cambodian Government, 

Honorable audience, 

Ladies and gentlemen, dear friends, 


We traveled for almost 24 hours, flying more than 10.000 km. in order to bring to you, the people of the Cambodia, our message of friendship, peace, tolerance and mutual understanding, a message from the very heart of the Europe. 


We are here to award to His Excellency Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Hun Sen,the title of HONORARY MEMBER of European Tourism Academy, member of the United Nations Academic Initiative.


For me this laudatio is a very special and heartfelt occasion.


We are talking here about the life and the activity of a great national and international personality that mark indelibly the past and present of Cambodia and will continue to give an impetus to the future of Cambodia and the global world destiny.


The life and the activity of your extraordinary Prime Minister spans for almost the last five decades and is closely connected to the history of the Cambodian nation and to the fight, existence and hopes of the Cambodian people.



Academician Mircea Constantinescu delivers the eulogy for H.E. Prime Minister of CAMBODIA-Dr. HUN SEN

 

During this period of time Prime Minister Hun Sen was one by one: strong fighter, versatile diplomat, powerful and visionary leader, playing on the internal and international arena an ever-growing role.

 

So it was clear from the beginning that an award for such an outstanding personality should encompass his entire activity. 


On the other side, some remarkable points in His Excellency biography should be revealed: 


At the age of 18, when other future leaders-to-be where still in their infancy, he was already fighting for his country and for a better future of the Cambodian people. He realized that military victory, especially in a civil war, is only the beginning of a much difficult struggle to restore a peaceful and prosperous life to Cambodian people. 


This made him to be a MAN OF ACTION

His diplomatic intuition was extremely helpful in the domestic and international arena. 

His strong belief in the win-win strategy as the best strategy in most situations, was keeping the country away from conflict, and in the middle of productive dialogs.


 A congratulatory shake-hand between European Tourism Academy leader, MIRCEA CONSTATINESCU and Academician Dr. HUN SEN.


A congratulatory shake-hand between European Tourism Academy leader, MIRCEA CONSTATINESCU and Academician Dr. HUN SEN leader of the Cambodian people.

 

These traits made him to be a MAN OF DIALOGUE. 


A perfectly balanced and well documented PHD in Politics from National Political Academy, had splendidly anchored the political activities and first hand governmental experience with the knowledge and the sobriety of the research necessary to carry out an PhD Thesis.

 

This succesful coronation of the prescribed curriculum made him a MAN OF REFLECTION. 


Finally, he also had the intuition and the knowledge that the economic development, the fight against poverty might be closely linked to the tourism and to the preservation of the cultural heritage.

 

We must note here a long and painstaking activity of coordinating culture, tourism and development for more than 40 years, activity reflected not only in more than 200 of speeches, works and allocutions but also in achievements that are speaking for themselves: from the ashes of civil war Cambodia is proclaimed today by the international community as a WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION. 


From a country ravaged by the conflicts and hunger, the glory of Cambodia`s past was resurrected, ancient temples like Preah Vihear restored to the nation and the country crowned today as a FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in the world. 


What a road, what a journey, made possible by the efforts of His Excellency Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Hun Sen. 


We may tell you many remarkable things about the complex personality and the successful activity of your beloved and remarkable Prime Minister, but we wanted to keep this Laudatio focus on the main points that shaped the life and the career of Academician Dr. HUN SEN. 


To give the complete story of such a brilliant life will take us weeks and months. 


I will just ask our newest academician to uphold, as he did his entire life, the fundamental principles of United Nations Academic Initiative and of European Tourism Academy: to support education, to foster education, to encourage global action and citizenship via education development, to uphold the system of higher education, to advance peace, sustainability and development on world arena. 


These are Your Excellency noble obligations as a member of European Academy. 


May they always guide your actions! 


These procedures being concluded, according to the centuries old academic protocol, I have the distinct pleasure to award the Title of MEMBER OF HONOR and the Medal of Honor of EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY to His Excellency Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo- Hun Sen, Prime Minister of Royal Government of Cambodia.                                                                                                                                                                                                            




Cultural and sustainable tourism initiatives at international level are recognized by the European Council on Tourisma and Trade Awards.

“The ECTT Prizes are designed to honor those nations and world leaders that arduously and continuously work for the benefit of their peoples and world community, supporting the livelihoods of the poorest and protecting our nature and our cultural monuments for the use and benefits of future generations. 

All 29 finalists accepted in the competition are an open example to all of us of how to fulfill the objectives set in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the world leaders agenda” announced in his opening statement ECTT President Anton Caragea.


Scrutinizing of the candidature files was made, in the initial stages, by the European Tourism Academy team, who drafted a preliminary report disseminated among the ECTT members. 


CAMODIA

Representatives from 28 countries debated the state of world tourism and evaluated the best performers in tourism today.


 Academician Dr. Mircea Constantinescu, Director of European Tourism Academy, presented the list of candidates and the list of reports and accompanying evaluations for each of the 30 countries registered candidatures.

Academician Mircea Constantinescu stressed the need for a strict observance of Chatham House roles of discretion, and also presented the report asking for a candidate country to be disbarred, for not being able to comply with the rules and regulation of World Institution-ECTT.

The motion was adopted and the analysis of remaining 29 countries in competition for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION continued.

ECTT Chairman –Mihai Prundianu stated for the audience the remarkable achievements of the 2015 award winner-The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia who capped 1 million tourists supplementary and derived tourism income in the margin of 2 billion dollars. Addis Ababa became the most rapidly growing city in Africa in the number of tourists.

Ethiopia enjoyed also a large presence in the media with over 120.000 tourism related articles promoting the country as the FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION.

Ethiopia has being, surpassing all the countries in the region in terms of tourism, appreciated Academician Mircea Constantinescu.


ECTT President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea marked also the world tourism institution determination to continue a special relation with Ethiopia that we come to know and love and who entered in our hearts forever, concluded Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

 

With the acceptance of the report by Chairman Mihai Prundianu on ETHIOPIA, the debate on the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2015 was declared opened according to the decision of ECTT President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea.

CAMBODIA-WORLD BEST OURIST DESTINATION 2016 (4)-web

ECTT President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea on the rostrum of WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2016

The second day (12 June 2016) of the debate for the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2016 saw Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) presenting the main report, encompassing the decision that emerged as the victorious candidate.

The report was titled: CAMBODIA: THE LAND OF MAGIC- THE PLACE WHERE GOD`S AND KINGS BUILD THE WORLD!

He proposed the Kingdom of CAMBODIA as the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 and as receiver of the FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION distinction for 2016.

The report noted the reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 PRIZE to CAMBODIA:

 

PREAH VIHEAR

Temple of Preah Vihear- the heart of ancient Indochina

The excellent preservation of humanity landmarks such as: the Temple of Preah Vihear- the heart of ancient Indochina.

The temple outstanding history can be traced to the 9th century, when the hermitage was founded.


Today the site is particularly well-preserved and is offering to the visitors an outstanding vision of grandeur, thanks to his exceptional for the quality of its architecture, which is adapted to the natural environment and the religious function of the temple, as well as for the exceptional quality of its carved stone ornamentation.



The Siem Reap province is home to the majestically and unique Angkor Archaeological Park - the residence of the Khmers Kings from 9th to 15th century.

Today this incredible humanity legacy,  stretching over some 400 sq.km, including forested area, Angkor Archaeological Park contains the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire, from the 9th to the 15th century.


They include the famous Temple of Angkor Watt and Angkor Thom, the Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations.

All this sites were recognized as being of world significance and registered as UNESCO World heritage monuments.

Angko Thom

Angkor Thom a temple of world significance and registered as UNESCO World heritage monument

The rich cultural and historical legacy of Cambodia is not limited to the previous presented list.

In order to fully grasp the natural potential of Cambodia natural parks and natural reservations we must look at the potential of these regions designated in 1993 Royal Decree on the Protection of Natural Areas.


They are encompassing 23 protected areas, which at the time covered more than 18% of the country’s total land area. The royal decree divides the areas into four distinct categories: natural parks (sometimes described as ‘national parks’), wildlife preserves, protected scenic view areas (sometimes described as ‘protected landscapes’) and multi-purpose areas.


Cambodia is also home to rarely and valuable Ramsar sites rated accordingly to RAMSAR CONVENTION of June 1999:

A stretch along the Mekong River approximately 37 km long and 14,600 hectares in Stung Treng Province, Boeng Chhmar and associated river system and floodplain, 28,000 hectares in Kampong Thom and Siem Reap provinces (part of a designated multiple use area).


Koh Kapik and associated islets, 12,000 hectares in Koh Kong province (part of a designated wildlife sanctuary).


 Giving tourists access to outstanding and pristine nature and the opportunity to explore nature, to contribute to ecological preservation, and the opportunity to visit extraordinary places.

 

All these regions and national parks are a model of achieving ecological and green tourism that must be recognized throughout the world. 

New prominent landmarks are to be added to UNESCO list such as: Angkor Borei and Phnom Da, the former celebrated as the ancient capital of Kingdom of Cambodia under the name of Vyadhapura and pace at the confluence of Mekong and Stun Sla Ku. This is now home to perfect archaeological treasures like sculptures and stones star-shaped called stela.


Phnom Da is famous for his caves, the mud tower and the all sought Ashram Maha Rosei, made in long standing stone and celebrated as a model of architectural ingenuity made out of interior monk housing units blending in the exterior wall.

Udong is the former capital of Royal Cambodia in 17th century from 1740 to 1746.

Udong is now a perfect example of a sprawling royal city, but also a royal necropolis gathering the funerary temples of kings that offered to Cambodia a chance of survival in the country darkest times.


Udong is the proof of the resilience and endurance of Khmer spirit in time of peril and dangers.

The project ONE VILLAGE/ONE PRODUCT designed to promote social fair  tourism, to sustain rural production and to bring about the rebirth of traditional craftsmanship created and promoted by H.E. Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Cambodia , is a perfect way of sharing revenue, growing income and supporting marginal and rural communities development.


The way in which social-tourism has become the base for local economic development, for empowerment of remote community and supporting educational and vocational projects benefiting the communities, makes social-fair tourism, the lesson that today-the KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA is offering to the world.


Bayon-Temple

The Bayon Temple with its countless sculptural decorations had brought Cambodia on the list of WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATIONS

The ongoing development and protection of cultural, religious and historical shrines of the Kingdom of Cambodia, the transformation of Angkor Region into a historical and spiritual center, offering to the visitors a glimpse into rich culture and heritage of peoples of Cambodia.

 

Angkor must be the world center of religious pilgrimage and cultural tourism offering to world tourists the complex healing experience of cultural legacy, religious special atmosphere and faith imbued air.

 

The preservation of outstanding historical and cultural heritage in the form of the former capital of the Kingdom of Cambodia, the Angkor cultural complex, an ample palatial complex from the 9th Century, offering an incredible sense of magnificence of one of the Asia greatest empire.

Today, Cambodia offers tourists bound for the country a rich and perfect open air collection with a rare presence of historical and archaeological treasures that educate and enrich the world.

The KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA is also a perfect center for river trips and adventure tourism, offering large areas suitable for this special kind of tourism, and the necessary infrastructure to welcome the adventure seeker, its safety and peace, makes the country, one of the world’s top adventure river destinations that make the KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA as a perfect cultural class destination.

CAMBODIA-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION 2016 (5)-web

Cambodia is now proclaimed WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION. Ambassadors are surrounding the European Council on Tourism and Trade leadership. 

Mr. Pavel Avramoiu, Director for Hotel Management and Evaluation at European Council on Tourism and Trade, outlined the impressive potential for development that Kingdom of Cambodia is presenting.


Cambodia, now proclaimed WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION, must transform this perfect opportunity and universal limelight in a base for attracting investors in the field of hotels and hospitality to cater for the millions that will find their ways to the KINGDOM OF WONDERS and LAND OF MAGIC!

This is an incredible occasion for all ASEAN regions, an opportunity to place regions cultural and historical patrimony at the fore and to make Cambodia the center for medium and long-term trips that will bring travelers to the magic of Indochina.

With open sky`s policies enacted by Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia, the country has become the center of ASEAN future development, concluded his speech World Tourism Institution Director Pavel Avramoiu. 

It is appropriate for Europe to express its commitment to, and appreciation for Asia by crowning CAMBODIA as THE FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION AND WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 stated the ECTT Director Ioan Matei.                     

 

Taking the floor, President Dr. Anton Caragea asked for a final vote and European Council on Tourism and Trade Assembly unanimously, agreed to bestow the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION STATUS FOR 2016 TO KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA and to declare CAMBODIA- THE FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2016.

 

The meeting was also presented with the Official Letter, from the Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia.


The world gathering (including ECTT members and accredited ambassadors and diplomats) was presented  with a warm salute and invitation from acting Minister of Tourism Mr. Chea Bora, for a mission of high ranking officials of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, to present the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD in Phnom Penh, in person, to His Excellency Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia, European Academician and outstanding personality in world tourism, today.


 CAMBODIA-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION 2016


The final note of ECTT 2016 Assembly was stroke by Professor Anton Caragea, President of the European Council on Tourism and Trade who emphasize the importance of the moment: the most important WORLD TOURISM PRIZE was entrusted to peoples of CAMBODIA.

 

CAMBODIA has arisen from ashes of nefarious time and is today a perfect destination crowned in the diamonds of Mekong, endowed with the beauties of Siem Reap and Battambang and made immortal by the works of Gods and Kings at Angkor.


Leading by example, is always the motto of European Council and Tourism and Trade and the acceptance of the invitation for a familiarization visit of high-ranking members of European Council on Tourism and Trade to CAMBODIA is a proof of this enduring truth. CAMBODIA is a perfectly safe and outstanding destination that will forever mark your heart!

 

Today all world tourism experts expressed their confidence in the potential and future of tourism in CAMBODIA, let`s follow their example and discover THE WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION in 2016- concluded Professor Anton Caragea, President of the European Council on Tourism and Trade.


                  SENATOR IONEL AGRIGOROAEI OFFERS PLAUDITS TO A VISIONARY LEADER: 

                                         SAMDECH AKKA MOHA SENA PADEI TECHO HUN SEN

                              EUROPEAN ACADEMICAN AND PRIME MINISTER OF CAMBODIA

Senator Agrigoroaei la sedinta Parlamentului

Senator Ionel Agrigoroaiei, Director of European Parliamentary Committee in the European Council on Tourism and Trade


Senator Ionel Agrigoroaiei, Director of European Parliamentary Committee in the European Council on Tourism and Trade and Senator of Romanian Parliament stated the opinion of all present at ECTT conference and declared that the KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA is the unique candidate that is offering a perfect blend of cultural record, large historical patrimony and is offering a magisterial lesson to the world: the lesson of creativity and resilience of SROK KHMER-the land of Khmers.


With an outstanding record of promoting social-fair tourism, ecological and poverty reduction strategy based on tourism Cambodia deserves a unanimous vote, appreciated the Senator I. Agrigoroaei.


                             IOAN MATEI- HOSPITALITY DIRECTOR DESCRIBES PREPARATIONS FOR 

                                WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION CEREMONIES IN PHNOM PENH


In a short speech at European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) General Assembly, hosted at Romanian Parliament, the Hospitality Director-Mr. Ioan Matei from World Tourism Institution – ECTT had marked down the incredible potential and future of Asia tourism as it was show cased in European Council on Tourism and Trade meeting.

2016WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION

It is appropriate for Europe to express its commitment to, and appreciation for, Asia by crowning CAMBODIA as THE FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION AND WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 stated the ECTT Director Ioan Matei.

CAMBODIA is a perfectly safe and outstanding destination that will forever mark your heart!

On the occasion of the visit to KINGDOM OF CAMBODIA, the world tourism delegates will bring as protocol gifts the famous COTNARI-1979 wine, priced at international auctions at over 5000 euro bottle.

Vinul de Cotnari cucereste Africa

In 2014 Mr. Ioan Matei has offered a collection bottle of 1979 COTNARI for H.E. President Robert MUGABE of Zimbabwe. 1979 is the year of Zimbabwe Lancaster Agreements that offered the Independence for the African country.

This world-famous wine was made world respected by the Louis XIV, famous Sun King of France,  love for this beverage and for Russian Czar Peter the Great desire to have it in Saint Petersburg cellars at Imperial Palace, will now be present at WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION AWARD CEREMONIES in Phnom Penh, announced Mr. Ioan Matei,who is also co-owner of COTNARI wineries.



                                                     PAVEL AVRAMOIU-HOTEL MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR 

         GIVES HIS TAKE ON FUTURE OF CAMBODIA: WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016


On the sidelines of World Tourism Institution-European Council on Tourism and Trade General Assembly we have the opportunity to discuss about the future of tourism, investment opportunity and hotel management latest trends, with one of the world leading specialist from hotel development Mr. PAVEL AVRAMOIU, with experience in a company managing 98 hotels from across 28 countries.

 

CAMBODIA-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION 2016 (5)-web

Here is his views on CAMBODIA-WORLD BEST TOURISM DESTINATION FOR 2016:

Cambodia, now proclaimed WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION, must transform this perfect opportunity and universal limelight in a base for attracting investors in the field of hotels and hospitality to cater for the millions, that will find their ways to the KINGDOM OF WANDERS and LAND OF MAGIC!

This is an incredible occasion for all ASEAN regions, an opportunity to place regions cultural and historical patrimony at the fore and to make Cambodia the center for medium and long-term trips that will bring travelers to the magic of Indochina.

With open sky`s policies enacted by Samedch Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo HUN SEN, Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia, the country has become the center of ASEAN future development.

My advice for the Royal Government of Cambodia will be to seize on this golden opportunity to market the country for hotel and tourism industry investment, concluded World Tourism Institution Director- Pavel Avramoiu.




    SAMDECH AKKA MOHA SENA PADEI TECHO HUN SEN, PRIME MINISTER OF CAMBODIA

                          IS RECOGNIZED AS A WORLD TOURISM  AND DEVELOPMENT LEADER


On the occasion of World Tourism Conclave,  held between 11 and 13 June 2016, the members of European Tourism Academy had elected in vigorous appreciation H.E. Samdech HUN SEN as honorary member of European Tourism Academy for his contribution to World Tourism Development and for upholding the values of cultural tourism on universal level during 2015-World Conference on Culture and Tourism.

Samdech Hun Sen-ONU Secretary General Ban Ki moon 2

United Nations Secretary General-Ban Ki Moon and H.E. Samdech HUN SEN. United Nations hosted the successful 2015-WORLD TOURISM CONFERENCE in Siem Reap-Cambodia  

 

The official letter, announcing the felicitous addition to the list of  celebrated world personalities of the name of Cambodian Prime Minister-Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo-HUN SEN was made public  by the Office of the President of European Council on Tourism and Trade .

The official decision, publicized by European Council on Tourism and Trade encourages Cambodia to continue the protection of his tremendous cultural heritage and to use it as an education hub for all mankind:

Obama and Samdech Hun Sen promoting Khmer style shirt

H.E. Samdech HUN SEN of Cambodia, a staunch promoter of elegant Khmer Style Shirts receives a bow from U.S. President-Barack Obama

In the new millennium Cultural and Historical Tourism becomes the beacon on which the life of billions of peoples is improved and enriched.

Cultural tourism is today a part of nation building and an intricate part of the nation’s international image.
In today`s world, a nation cannot project his external dimension, and cannot imagine his diplomatic activity in the absence of promoting his historic patrimony and boost his cultural prowess(….) 

Under Your Excellency leadership, the Government of Kingdom of Cambodia has for a long time recognized and abated the importance of culture and tourism as key facilitators for the country development and international promotion.(..) 

 

CAMBODIA-WORLD BEST OURIST DESTINATION 2016 (5)

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea- European Council on Tourism and Trade (center photo) and Academician Mircea Constantinescu (extreme right in the photo) are announcing the decision of selecting H.E. Prime Minister of Cambodia- Samdech HUN SEN as a WORLD LEADER OF TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT

 

Your Excellency has being true to his word and commitment and by protecting and promoting the incredible legacy left to us by the Khmer Kings of Angkor had helped the incredible resurgence of the Khmer people in XXI century.

Cambodia was lifted from the brink of extinction to another horizon of hope and future development and Khmer people is building today the new temples of Phnom Penh: a steel and glass city that will echo the buildings of the past.

The letter inked and sealed by H.E. European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea and European Tourism Academy Director-Dr. Mircea Constantinescu for H.E. Prime Minister of Kingdom of Cambodia concludes:

This is a statement of confidence in the bright future of Khmer nation and practical measures put in place, made your country succeeding in the 2016- WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD competition and be accepted as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION for your nations incredible weight of culture, history prowess and contribution to humanity legacy.

This is a new momentous achievement for CAMBODIA, a moment that is due to your exertions.



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