Asean focuses on intra-regional travel in 2009

 At the meeting on Jan 8, held in conjunction with the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2009 (ATF 2009), the ministers agreed to focus on intra-Asean travel as they anticipated the global economic slowdown in 2009.

 Representing Thailand in the meeting was Tourism and Sports Minister Chumpol Silapa-archa.

 The Ministers tasked the Asean Tourism Officials to work closely with the private sector to work out a tactical program which offers cost effective tour packages for Intra-ASEAN travellers and other key markets of Asean.  The Ministers reiterated their keen interest in promoting youth travel and shall be a key segment target for 2009-2010.

 As Thailand will be hosting the 14 th Asean Summit in February 2009, the Ministers requested the Minister of Tourism and Sports of Thailand to convey commitment on further integration in the tourism sector to Asean leaders.

 Regarding the Asean Plus Three Youth Festival, which was successfully launched in Singapore last year, Asean tourism ministers also urged Thailand, as chair of Asean, to proceed with the festival. The task force will also present tactical youth campaign under the Visit Asean Campaign during the 14th Asean Summit in Thailand.