Myanmar is implementing a program to attract Russian tourists – Kommersant

The Minister of Tourism of the Republic of Myanmar, Thet Thet Khaine, announced the introduction of the “Welcome, Russians!” program during the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF). For these purposes, Myanmar organizes study tours for Russian representatives and journalists.

“This is a very important milestone in relations, which will allow us to receive Russian tourists. We have become closer to each other, we have direct flights. Thus, we have improved transport accessibility for tourists, and this is important for the long-term development of tourism in both countries,” the Minister of Tourism told reporters on the sidelines of EEF 2023 (quoted by “Interfax”).

5 September Myanmar Airways International launched direct flights between Novosibirsk and the largest city of Myanmar, Yangon, with an intermediate stop in Mandalay (the second largest city in Myanmar). This was the first flight after a 30-year break. Myanmar has become the 38th country with which Russia has direct flights.

The Minister of Tourism of Myanmar also emphasized that the program “Welcome, Russians!” will not be one-sided; Naypyidaw plans to develop outbound tourism from Myanmar to Russia.

“Since we were a British colony, we are mainly tied to the European community. Myanmar people traveled to the EU, USA, Australia, and New Zealand. But they are very interested in coming to Russia and seeing its tourist attractions,” said Ms. Thet Khaine.

The Ministry of Tourism plans to organize a series of study tours for 30 representatives selected by the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation. At the end of September – beginning of October, the country plans to invite representatives of the Russian media to talk about the benefits of tourism in Myanmar, Thet Thet Khaine added.

“This year we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and Myanmar. We have a variety of opportunities in many areas, including tourism. Our ministry will be happy to welcome Russian tourists to show them our beautiful country,” the minister noted, inviting “Russian investors to invest in Myanmar, which is a fascinating destination where you can come all year round.”

The Minister of Tourism also noted that it is important to simplify the visa regime to increase the Russian tourist flow; Myanmar has already created such a program. The country is also implementing a protocol to ensure the health and safety of Russians, and has also organized Russian language courses for tour operators to ensure quality services to serve Russians.

Delgir Mandzhieva