Mekong Tourism Forum-2026: MOHTC UM delivered the opening address

Myanmar is hosting the Mekong Tourism Forum-2026, 57th Greater Mekong Sub-Region (GMS) Tourism Working Group Meeting under the theme “Tourism for People, Travel with Purpose” in Yangon from June 14th to 19th.

On June 17th, Union Minister for Hotels, Tourism and Culture U Maung Myint, Yangon Region Chief Minister U Aung Naing Thu along with the high ranking officials from GMS member countries attended the opening ceremony. 

First, Union Minister U Maung Myint expressed words of honour for Myanmar’s rotating chairmanship on hosting Mekong Tourism Forum-2026 and related meetings. In order to strengthen cooperation among the regions, the Union Minister urged all the member countries to promote tourism innovation for the sustainable development of Mekong tourism industry, to elevate public participation while preserving cultural heritage and assisting vocational education of the locals.

In 2025, domestic and international tourist arrival increased in Myanmar like other member countries, supporting the livelihoods of local people, cultural preservation, and regional economic development. The Union Minister stated the Ministry’s efforts for tourism industry recovery while also transforming the sector into an innovative, inclusive and sustainable development by 2026. The Union Minister also added that hosting the forum is not only to discuss policies but also to exchange field survey, market research and ideas, cultural, traditions and history of member countries for continuous tourism development. Mr. HUOT Hak Minister of Tourism of the Kingdom of Cambodia and Executive Director of Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office then delivered opening speeches.