PHNOM PENH, June 25 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia is preparing to nominate the southwestern coastal city of Kampot for membership in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) in the field of Gastronomy, said a Ministry of Tourism's news release on Thursday.
Tourism Minister Huot Hak and UNESCO Representative Flavio Bonetti joined over 200 officials and experts in Kampot on Wednesday for the final consultation workshop on Kampot city's UNESCO membership nomination dossier.
Hak said the nomination reflected Cambodia's collective commitment to gaining international recognition for its cultural values, creativity, and local identity.
He also commended the people of Kampot province, including local artisans, entrepreneurs, producers, and chefs, for their dedication to preserving and developing the province's cultural and culinary heritage.
"Kampot boasts immense potential, thanks to its rich natural resources, breathtaking landscapes, and French colonial architecture," Hak said.
He added that the province is also renowned for its internationally recognized Geographical Indication (GI)-status agri-tourism products, including Kampot pepper, Kampot salt and flower of salt, Kampot fish sauce, Kampot durian, and fresh seafood.
"These valuable assets provide a solid foundation for developing Kampot into a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy," he said.
The minister noted that modern tourism has shifted from simple sightseeing to a search for authentic experiences in culture, gastronomy, the arts, music, and local lifestyles.
"Therefore, joining the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in Gastronomy will serve as a strategic platform to attract investment, enhance competitiveness, and drive sustainable development," he said.
According to the minister, Battambang City in northwest Cambodia became the first Cambodian city to earn the prestigious title of UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2023. ■