March 15, 2002
‘35’ CAMBODIA SEEKS INDIAN ASSISTANCE FOR RESTORATION OF TEMPLESCambodia has sought Indian assistance for restoring its ancient temples. Mr. Hor Namhong, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia has also proposed a joint package for promotion of tourism and bilateral cooperation in various areas of culture. The Cambodian Minister, who called on Shri Jagmohan, Minister for Tourism & Culture, here today said that India and Cambodia have age-old cultural ties. Indian Archeologists have done the wonderful job for the restoration of world famous Angkorvat Temple. Restoration of other ancient temples by the Indian experts would definitely help Cambodia to promote its tourism. The Cambodian Minister said that India and Cambodia should consider opening up their skies for direct flights and arrangement to encourage the foreign tourists visiting India to visit Cambodia and vice-versa.
Welcoming the Cambodian Minister, Shri Jagmohan said that India would be very happy to provide all possible assistance to Cambodia for restoration of monuments including temples. Shri Jagmohan offered training facilities for the Cambodian Archeologists in India. He said India would definitely like cooperation in tourism, as both the countries are culturally close and are known for cultural tourism. He stated that India has already set up a working group to implement provisions of MoU signed earlier with Cambodia in the area of tourism. He expressed the hope that Cambodia would also come out with similar arrangements to ensure increased cooperation.