NAN – The government has announced plans to enhance cultural tourism by promoting the northern province of Nan and forging a twin-city relationship with Luang Prabang province in Laos.
As part of these efforts, the government has expressed its intention to nominate Nan as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing the province’s rich prehistoric archaeological sites, ethnic diversity, and local knowledge. The nomination was set in motion after the cabinet approved the Culture Ministry’s proposal in March, including a budget allocation of seven million baht to increase public awareness and conduct academic assessments of the area.
The government also plans to upgrade Nan airport to international status to attract more international visitors. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has urged the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry, the Thai World Heritage Committee, and the Culture Ministry to expedite the nomination process, citing the potential economic and social benefits for Nan and its surrounding regions. (NNT)
