Asean secretary-general urges stronger cruise tourism ties with India
Speaking virtually from Jakarta during the Asean-India Cruise Dialogue 2025 held in Chennai on Monday (June 30), he said the initiative provides a timely platform to deepen maritime tourism and strengthen regional connectivity.
"The Cruise Dialogue offers a strategic platform to translate our shared aspirations into action. By working together, we can develop initiatives that link heritage, culture, and communities across our coastal regions,' he said in a video message released by the Asean Secretariat.
Kao outlined several priorities under the work plan, including the development of integrated cruise circuits, enhancement of port infrastructure with digital systems, and promotion of joint investments in cruise-related services.
He emphasised capacity-building in cruise operations and hospitality, especially targeting youth and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and called for stronger coordination through the Asean Task Force on Tourism and Transport.
Sustainability was also a key theme, with calls to protect marine ecosystems, improve climate resilience, and harness digital platforms to enhance passenger experiences and operational coordination.
"These areas of cooperation reflect the potential for Asean and India to lead in sustainable and inclusive cruise tourism,' Kao said, noting India's US$5 million contribution to the Asean-India Fund as a vital support mechanism.
With over 40 cruise destinations in Asean and major port upgrades underway, he said the sector is emerging as a strategic growth area.
The dialogue was held as part of the Asean-India Year of Tourism aimed at strengthening tourism ties between the two regions.
Travel between Asean and India has been growing, with about 5.88 million Indian tourists visiting Asean last year and 660,000 visitors from Asean countries travelling to India, Kao added. - Bernama
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