Gangtok: The Sikkim State Tourism and Civil Aviation department recently organized an Exchange Meeting with the Ambassador of Thailand to India, Pattarat Hongtong, in Gangtok.

The event was attended by various key figures, including Acharapan Yavapravas, Consul General of Thailand in Kolkata, Tourism Secretary Prakash Chhetry, Tourism PCE Neeraj Pradhan, MSME Director M. Ravi Kumar, Additional Secretary Bandana Chettri, Managing Director of Food Preservatives Chandra Rani Rai, and other stakeholders.

During the meeting, Ambassador Pattarat Hongtong highlighted the shared cultural and traditional aspects between the Sikkimese and Thai communities. She expressed her appreciation for Sikkim's commitment to sustainable tourism, a philosophy also embraced by the Thai government. The primary objectives of their visit included exploring investment opportunities in the tourism sector and enhancing trade in Sikkim. The importance of exchanging ideas and collaborating on sustainable tourism and promotional activities was discussed, particularly considering Sikkim's popularity among the Thai community.

In his welcome address, Tourism Secretary Prakash Chhetry provided an overview of the state's tourism landscape. He emphasized the government's efforts to enhance the tourism industry and outlined the department's objectives and forthcoming plans related to tourism. He further discussed ongoing projects aimed at improving tourism, including plans for enhanced air and railway connectivity. The Secretary stressed the importance of strengthening the relationship between the Sikkim and Thai governments and expressed the state's keen interest in collaborating with the Thai tourism industry.

Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Director M. Ravi Kumar discussed the government's efforts to promote industries in the state through various schemes and financial assistance. He highlighted potential sectors for bilateral trade, such as food processing, organic agriculture, pharmaceuticals, handicrafts, bamboo, film, and music industry. The evolving cosmetic industry and the variety of spices available in the state were also emphasized.

The meeting featured presentations by stakeholders from the Tourism and Commerce and Industries departments, and a brief video presentation on Sikkim tourism was showcased. This exchange meeting marked a significant step in strengthening tourism and trade ties between Sikkim and Thailand.

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