Welcome Remarks by
H.E. Kulkumut Singhara Na Ayudhaya
Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of the Philippines
at the Amazing Thailand Travel Fair
SM MegaMall Atrium
30 July 2010

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Hon. Samsern Ngaorangsri, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

On behalf of the Royal Thai Embassy and Team Thailand, it is my pleasure to welcome you all to the Amazing Thailand Travel Fair in the Philippines. Today?s event will present a unique opportunity for all of you to realize the potential and strength of our tourism industry, through amazing cuisine presentations and various cultural performances.

The tourism industry of Thailand has played a very important role in its social and economic development. In fact, the tourism industry has significantly contributed to the increase of Thailand?s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate to 3.5% - 4.5%, from last year?s - 2%.

Moreover, the tourism industry has generated US$ 16 Billion last year through sound and effective coordination between the Royal Thai Government and the business sector as well as our partner countries.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

As part of its national agenda, the Royal Thai Government and the private sector have put all efforts of re-strengthening the tourism industry, which was affected by the political situation last May. To this end, the Government has launched measures such as:

1. Promoting domestic travel;
2. Subsidizing travel agencies, especially small and middle enterprises;
3. Promoting travel opportunities to Thailand in targeted countries; and
4. Building confidence measures among stakeholders.

To facilitate more tourists to Thailand, I am very pleased to inform you that Thailand?s free tourist visa regime will be extended until March 2011. Furthermore, the Royal Thai Government is providing travel insurance in the amount of up to US$ 10,000 per person for those who were affected from the political incident until March 2011.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

On a positive note, the tourism situation in Thailand has returned to normal. In fact, countries including the Philippines last June 4, have already lifted their travel advisory to Thailand. This was made possible due to the efforts exerted by the Royal Thai Government and the support of the business sector, our partner countries as well as travel agencies.

Last but not the least, I would like to take this opportunity to extend our appreciation to travel agencies for their active role in supporting the Thai tourism industry.

Once again, welcome to the Amazing Thailand Travel Fair and I wish you all the best and success.

Thank you very much.

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