The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is striving for ongoing collaboration with Russia to enhance seamless travel and boost tourism growth across the region.

During the 16th ASEAN–Russia Tourism Consultation on Tuesday, January 27th, in Cebu City, Philippine tourism undersecretary Verna Buensuceso stated that ASEAN aims to create an inclusive and robust tourism industry.

Buensuceso remarked: “We value the Russian Federation as a long-standing partner of ASEAN in strengthening people-to-people exchanges. This partnership is significant as it is founded on mutual aspirations: a tourism sector that is resilient in times of disruption, inclusive in the opportunities it generates, rooted in respect for culture, heritage, and nature, and a catalyst for peace and international understanding.”

Additionally, she emphasized ASEAN’s commitment to fostering cooperation that enhances traveler confidence and safety, supports workforce development and skill sharing, and improves connectivity to facilitate more accessible travel.

Buensuceso also suggested advancing collaboration through digital marketing alongside the sharing of travel-related data and best practices.

Seeking Full Recovery

Igor Maksimov, deputy director of the Russian Ministry of Economic Development, expressed optimism for the full recovery of mutual tourism.

Four years post-pandemic, Maksimov indicated that the tourism exchange between Russia and ASEAN nations has recovered to 93 percent of its pre-pandemic levels. He noted, “And this figure continues to rise. Thus, adopting a new joint work plan until 2030 appears to be a promising step toward establishing a commercially advantageous partnership.”