Bt63 billion asked for tourism development

BANGKOK: -- Thailand's Tourism and Sports Ministry will propose a four-year tourism development plan, effective from 2007-2010, asking for Bt63 billion to the new government, to develop the kingdom's tourism industry.

Speaking to journalists Friday after meeting senior tourism officials, Tourism and Sports Ministry permanent secretary Sakthip Krairiksh said that a budget of Bt63.25 billion (US$1.6 billion) is needed to further develop Thailand's tourism.

The request will be submitted to the new government for its approval.

The ministry's bid to develop the country's tourism industry comes at the time when foreign tourists have opted for making journeys to Thailand's neighbouring countries due to their concern for Thailand's political unsettledness.

Mr. Sakthip is, however, confident that tourism in the country should improve as Thais are this year celebrating the 60th anniversary of His Majesty the King's accession to the throne.

The Tourism and Sports Minister said his ministry would cooperate with the Culture Ministry in publishing tour guide books and distribute them to foreign countries' leaders and tourists who plan to visit the Kingdom to participate in the celebrations.

--TNA 2006-04-29

The ministry's bid to develop the country's tourism industry comes at the time when foreign tourists have opted for making journeys to Thailand's neighbouring countries due to their concern for Thailand's political unsettledness.

Ummmm... yes, of course. No other reason.