Tourism development requires an integrated data system

KATHMANDU, March 18:Stakeholders, an integrated data system is required for tourism development. This was stated by participants at a workshop in Kathmandu organized by the World Tourism Organization UNWTO, the Government of Nepal, the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, and the Nepal Tourism Board.

The workshop took place from March 15 to March 17. The workshop was attended by representatives from 11 countries, including Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Maldives, Indonesia, Iran, Philippines, Cambodia, Laos, Korea, Thailand, Spain, and UNWTO.

The World Tourism Organization has been discussing various aspects of global tourism and has been implementing programs of this nature in various areas to keep the tourism industry running. At the same time, a regional program was organized in Nepal. The workshop focused on tourism data for tourism development and growth. The participants agreed that new plans and programs should be developed as a result of this.

Sushila Sripali Thakuri, Minister of State for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, stated at the program's conclusion that statistics will play an important role in the numerical and qualitative development of the tourism sector. She stated that the workshop discussions and conclusions will give a new impetus to tourism in Asia and the Pacific region. She expressed gratitude to UNWTO for organizing such an important and intensive program in Nepal.

On that occasion, Beka Zakeli, Director of External Relations for the World Tourism Organization under the United Nations, stated that data plays an important role in any policy and that its use is especially important for tourism development. He directed that each country prepare a satellite account using the proper method, process, data collection from various sources, and analysis.

The board's director, Maniraj Lamichhane, reported that more than a ten working papers were presented in various tourism-related sessions during the three-day workshop.