AKP Phnom Penh, April 25, 2025 --

The Ministry of Tourism of Cambodia and Cappadocia University in Türkiye are set to establish cooperation in vocational training for the tourism sector, including tour guiding, hospitality, and culinary arts, as well as in developing strategic plans to attract international tourists.

According to the ministry, on April 23 in Istanbul, Türkiye, H.E. Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism of Cambodia, met with Prof. Dr. Hasan Ali Karasar, Rector of Cappadocia University, to discuss collaboration in professional tourism training and the exchange of expertise in planning sustainable, green, and inclusive tourism development strategies that add value to the sector.

Through this important and fruitful meeting, the source added, both parties will formalize their cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), focusing on experience-sharing and both long-term and short-term training initiatives.

Prof. Dr. Hasan Ali Karasar has played a prominent role in shaping sustainable tourism strategies for Türkiye’s Ministry of Tourism and Culture, as well as for several other countries. Cappadocia University is recognised as a leading institution in training high-level professionals in tourism fields such as tour guiding, hospitality, and culinary arts.

Later the same day, H.E. Huot Hak also participated in a working dinner with Mr. Volkan Öztürk, Honorary Consul General of Cambodia in Istanbul; Ms. Honorary Consul General of Albania in Istanbul; and Mr. Mahir ALP, President of the Türkiye–Cambodia Business Council. The discussion centred on enhancing collaboration to promote Cambodia’s tourism potential and investment opportunities more widely in Türkiye and Albania, particularly through the networks of the Consulate General and business councils. Special attention was given to outreach support via the renowned Galatasaray Sports Club.

On the occasion, H.E. Minister emphasised the cultural and tourism similarities among the three nations, highlighting their rich heritage, diverse and high-quality accommodations, delicious traditional cuisines, and warm hospitality. He also noted their strategic geographical positions—Cambodia as a central transit hub in ASEAN, Türkiye as a bridge between Asia and Europe, and Albania as a key connectivity point in the Balkans.

By C. Nika