The event started at 7:30 am, promising an exciting encounter with masters of both Shaolin and Bokator martial arts. Over 500 attendees were expected, including high-ranking officials, members of various tourism associations, journalists, and martial artists from both countries.
The goal of this joint demonstration is to strengthen cultural ties and introduce a unique tourist attraction, showcasing the rich martial arts heritage of both countries. Top Sopheak, spokesperson for the Cambodian Ministry of Tourism, explained that the Cambodia-China Cultural Tourism Exhibition is an initiative of Tourism Minister Sok Soken, part of the “Cambodia-China People’s Exchange Year 2024” with the Henan Provincial Administration of China, as well as the Siem Reap Provincial Administration.
“This event will attract more Chinese tourists and promote the potential of Cambodian cultural tourism, as we have an exhibition on cultural and tourism products of China and Cambodia,” he told the Phnom Penh Post.
Sopheak said that in 2023, Cambodia attracted about 540,000 Chinese tourists, and it is expected that in 2024, Cambodia will welcome about 1 million visitors from China. The provincial leaders of the Shaolin martial arts school, originating from Henan province, will showcase their unique martial arts, while Cambodia will also display their Bokator from the Cambodian Bokator Association.
Long Kosal, spokesperson for the Apsara National Authority, emphasized the purpose of the event is to facilitate cross-cultural understanding. He highlighted its role in strengthening relations and promoting cooperation.
“When it comes to promoting tourism, culture plays an important role. It creates better connections through mutual understanding,” he told The Post. He expressed hope that events like this will boost tourism in Siem Reap, attracting more tourists to stay longer.
The “Cambodia-China People’s Exchange Year 2024” is a bilateral initiative aimed at enhancing cultural, social, and educational exchanges between Cambodia and China. This year-long program is designed to enhance understanding and friendship between the peoples of the two countries through a series of activities including cultural events, educational exchanges, and tourism promotion.
