AKP Phnom Penh, February 25, 2026 --

UNESCO in Cambodia has reaffirmed its commitment to further strengthen cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism in developing cultural and heritage tourism, and to place tourism high on the agenda of activities marking the 75th anniversary of Cambodia’s membership in UNESCO in 2026.

The commitment was made during a meeting held in Phnom Penh on Feb. 24 between H.E. Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism, and Mr. Flavio Bonetti, Representative of UNESCO in Cambodia.

During the meeting, Mr. Bonetti said UNESCO remains committed to supporting Cambodia in preserving and promoting its rich cultural and natural heritage, which constitutes the country’s strong potential and appeal as tourism destinations.

The discussions also covered UNESCO’s technical assistance to the Ministry of Tourism in applying for the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. The success of Battambang as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy was highlighted, along with potential support for other provinces in the future. In addition, the two sides exchanged views on the management and development of World Heritage Sites, including Angkor, Sambor Prei Kuk, and Preah Vihear temples, with a focus on safeguarding their Outstanding Universal Value while promoting sustainable heritage tourism.

In response, H.E. Huot Hak expressed his deep appreciation to Mr. Bonetti and UNESCO Cambodia for their continued support and close cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism in the sustainable development of cultural, heritage, and natural tourism, in line with international standards and Cambodia’s local context. He also welcomed UNESCO’s initiatives and ongoing or planned collaborative activities, which play an important role in attracting international tourists and supporting Cambodia’s economic development.

On the occasion, the Minister sought further UNESCO support in promoting Cambodia’s tourism destinations internationally, as well as in providing technical assistance for heritage conservation and development – particularly the urgent conservation and promotion of Preah Vihear Temple.

H.E. Huot Hak also requested UNESCO’s technical assistance for Cambodia’s applications to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for Kampot city, and Kratie and Rattanakiri provinces, and proposed including tourism as a key agenda item in celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of Cambodia’s UNESCO membership.

Cambodia has been a member of UNESCO since 1951, marking its 75th anniversary in 2026, and has hosted a UNESCO country office since its reopening in 1991.

By C. Nika