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VIENTIANE (Xinhua): Lao authorities gathered in Lao capital Vientiane to develop a plan for Lao tourism from 2026 to 2030, aiming to ensure that the sector's development promotes high-quality tourism and aligns with international standards.
The meeting, held from Tuesday to Thursday, aimed to identify the future direction of tourism, with business operators and government officials from the Lao capital Vientiane and provinces sharing ideas on industry standards, according to a report from Laos' Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism.
But it is not an easy target to achieve. The Laos government said Saturday it was "profoundly saddened" by the deaths of foreign tourists in Vang Vieng, with the toll from a suspected methanol poisoning incident now at six.
Two Danish citizens, an American, a Briton and two Australians have now died after being rushed to hospital following a night out in backpacker hot spot Vang Vieng.
They were among a group of about a dozen foreigners who fell ill and were rushed to hospital shortly after November 12.
In a statement on its website, Laos' Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Saturday it expressed "sincere sympathy and deepest condolences to the families of the deceased", adding an investigation was underway.
As for the new tourism targets, Speaking at the meeting, Lao Deputy Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Darany Phommavongsa said tourism stimulates the development of other sectors of the economy by creating jobs and incomes, and is a main driver of economic and social development, helping to ease poverty across the country.
The quality of tourism in Laos has gradually improved, especially through the seven Asean Tourism Standards and the Asean Sustainable Tourism Awards.
In addition, business operators are encouraged to perform to high standards, make guests feel welcome, and provide services that meet guests' needs and ensure their satisfaction. - Xinhua
