Cambodian PM: Country Not a Hub for Crime or Trafficking
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Synopsis
On February 27, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet urged for an increase in international tourism, clarifying that Cambodia is not a center for criminal activities like kidnapping, cybercrime, or human trafficking. He highlighted government actions against such crimes and emphasized the importance of tourism to the national economy.
Key Takeaways
- Hun Manet calls for more international tourists.
- Cambodia is not a base for kidnapping or human trafficking.
- Government takes strong measures against crime.
- Tourism is critical for Cambodia's economy.
- 2024 saw a 23% increase in foreign visitors.
Phnom Penh, Feb 27 (NationPress) Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet emphasized on Thursday the importance of attracting more international visitors, asserting that the Southeast Asian nation is not a hub for kidnapping, cybercrime, or human trafficking.
During his address at the closing ceremony of the Ministry of Tourism's yearly conference in Phnom Penh, Hun Manet stated that the government is vigilant and has implemented stringent measures against those who seek to exploit Cambodia for illicit activities.
"We recognize that there are certain challenges, but we have responded decisively to tackle them," he remarked.
Tourism plays a crucial role as one of the four key pillars supporting Cambodia's economy, alongside garment exports, agriculture, and real estate and construction.
Tourism Minister Huot Hak revealed that the country welcomed 6.7 million foreign tourists in 2024, marking a remarkable 23 percent increase compared to the previous year.
"For 2025, we anticipate that the number of international tourists visiting Cambodia will rise to between 7.2 million and 7.5 million," he stated, as reported by Xinhua.
Cambodia boasts four UNESCO-designated world heritage sites, including the Angkor Archaeological Park in the northwestern province of Siem Reap, the Temple Zone of Sambor Prei Kuk in central Kampong Thom, and the Temple of Preah Vihear along with the Koh Ker archaeological site in northwestern Preah Vihear.
Additionally, the country features a stunning coastline that stretches approximately 450 km across four southwestern provinces: Sihanoukville, Kampot, Kep, and Koh Kong.
