Cambodia, Nepal boost religious tourism cooperation

Cambodia, Nepal boost religious tourism cooperation

Cambodia and Nepal have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in religious tourism and further develop and sustain the sector.

Chay Borin, Minister of Cults and Religion, met with Badri Prasad Pandey, Minister of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation of Nepal, at the Ministry of Cults and Religion in Phnom Penh on Tuesday. The meeting focussed on enhancing cultural exchange and fostering closer ties between the two nations through religious tourism, according to the Ministry of Religion’s statement.

During his visit to Cambodia, Pandey praised the country’s policy of recognising Buddhism as the state religion while promoting religious harmony and coexistence. He commended Cambodia’s commitment to upholding peace and inclusivity among various religious communities.

Pandey emphasised Nepal’s interest in boosting bilateral tourism, encouraging people from both countries to explore each other’s rich cultural and religious heritage. He noted that strengthening religious tourism would allow visitors to gain a deeper understanding of both nations’ traditions and beliefs.

Borin welcomed the Nepalese delegation and expressed gratitude for the visit. He highlighted Cambodia’s continued progress under the leadership of Senate President Hun Sen and Prime Minister Hun Manet, ensuring peace, development, and religious freedom in the country.

As part of the discussions, Borin proposed Nepal’s support in maintaining the Khmer Pagoda in Lumbini, Nepal – the birthplace of Lord Buddha. He also requested Nepal to consider visa exemptions for Cambodian monks residing at the pagoda.

Borin extended his best wishes to the Nepalese delegation, hoping for their continued success in strengthening the long-standing friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

Buddhism tourism in Nepal is a significant sector that attracts pilgrims, spiritual seekers, and cultural enthusiasts from around the world. Nepal is deeply connected to Buddhism as the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, who later became the Buddha. The country is home to numerous sacred Buddhist sites, monasteries, and meditation centres.

Nepal and Cambodia established formal diplomatic relations on June 16, 1969.

Nepal and Cambodia share a Buddhist heritage, which serves as a foundation for cultural and spiritual exchanges. Lumbini, Nepal, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, is a major pilgrimage destination for Cambodian Buddhists. In return, Angkor Wat and other Khmer temples are significant for Nepalese travellers interested in Buddhist and Hindu heritage.

Both countries are members of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the United Nations (UN), often supporting each other in international forums. High-level visits between Nepalese and Cambodian officials have strengthened diplomatic ties, particularly in areas of tourism and cultural heritage, in the past year.