Vientiane: Officials from Champasak Province and Vietnam's Dak Lak Province have agreed to strengthen cooperation in tourism development following a technical exchange meeting held on December 25 in Champasak. The meeting focused on enhancing collaborative efforts to leverage the tourism potential of both regions.

According to Lao News Agency, the meeting brought together the Department of Culture and Tourism of Champasak and the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Dak Lak. It was co-chaired by Tedavan Keophilavan, head of Champasak's Department of Culture and Tourism, and Nguyen Thuy Phuong Hieu, deputy head of Dak Lak's Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, along with technical staff from both sides.

Champasak officials highlighted the province's strong tourism potential, citing its rich cultural heritage, long history, and diverse natural attractions. The province currently boasts 244 tourist sites, encompassing 139 natural sites, 62 cultural sites, and 43 historical sites. Champasak also hosts 30 festivals annually and is organized into four major tourism zones, including Vat Phou Champasak World Heritage Site and the Si Phan Don, or 4,000 Islands, area.

Dak Lak representatives shared updates on their province's tourism sector, noting robust growth in domestic and international visitors. Officials emphasized Dak Lak's wide range of cultural, historical, and natural attractions as key strengths underpinning their tourism appeal.

Both sides exchanged technical experience aimed at improving tourism management and development. Looking ahead, the two departments signed a memorandum of understanding to deepen cooperation and strengthen their partnership beginning in 2026.