Thailand, Myanmar boost cooperation in tourism development

A tourist destination in Myanmar (Photo: AFP)

Bangkok (VNA) - Thailand and Myanmar have signed a cooperation deal to promote tourism routes connecting ancient cities of the two countries in preparation for a travel boom expected from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Thailand's Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration (DASTA) recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Myanmar authorities to foster sustainable and cultural travel routes connecting old cities in both countries.

Under the MoU, DASTA and authorities of Myeik, located in southern Myanmar, will together develop and promote tourism plans by linking historical sites from the ancient Dvaravati period, a powerful kingdom that flourished from the 6th to the 11th centuries. 

The first phase of the tourism project consists of five routes from Thailand's U Thong ancient city through western Thailand to Tanintharyi, an ancient city in Myanmar, namely U Thong-Suphan Buri, U Thong-Kanchanaburi, U Thong-Nakhon Pathom, U Thong-Prachuap Khiri Khan and U Thong-Myeik. 

DASTA Deputy Director Chumpol Musiganont said the new travel routes will help broaden ASEAN tourism.

The routes will be managed under the Global Sustainable Tourism Council's criteria to sustain natural and cultural resources. 

Moreover, the initiative will preserve the authenticity of local lifestyles, customs and cultures in the ancient Dvaravati areas between Thailand and Myanmar.-VNA