ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn has outlined key actions under the ASEAN-India Tourism Work Plan 2023–2027 to strengthen cruise tourism cooperation between the two regions. This is reported by
Bernama, a partner of TV BRICS.

Speaking virtually from Jakarta during the ASEAN-India Cruise Dialogue 2025, held in Chennai, he said the initiative provides a timely platform to enhance maritime tourism and regional connectivity.

“This 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 areas,” Kao said in a video message released by the ASEAN Secretariat.

Kao highlighted several priorities within the work plan, including the development of an integrated cruise circuit, the upgrade of port infrastructure using digital systems, and the promotion of joint investment in cruise-related services. He also stressed the importance of capacity-building in cruise operations and hospitality.

Sustainability was a key theme in his address, with a call to protect marine ecosystems, strengthen climate resilience, and utilise digital platforms to improve passenger experience and operational coordination. 

Kao concluded by noting a rise in travel flows, with around 5.88 million Indian tourists visiting ASEAN countries last year, compared to 660,000 ASEAN nationals who travelled to India.

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