High-profile events attracting tourists from across the world will fuel Cambodia’s tourism sector in the days to come, Senior Minister Ly Thuch said as he inaugurated the Skyfest 2023 at Bay of Lights in Sihanoukville.

Bay of Lights, a colossal project initiated by Canopy Sands Development, a member of Prince Holding Group, according to various reports, is estimated to create three million inbound tourists by 2030, adding hundreds of thousands of new jobs and thousands of new housing facilities, educational institutions and entertainment hubs.

The $20 billion project is also expected to contribute towards population growth in Sihanoukville Province.

“Along with SEA Games, this great effort is an important step towards a brighter future. I acknowledge the great contributions of the Cambodian Prime Minister in bringing peace and development to the country,” the senior minister said.

Prince Group has changed the image of Cambodia and contributed to the nation for a great future, he pointed out.

“Events like Skyfest are an investment in future. The Bay of Lights project will elevate Sihanoukville into a world-class tourist destination. The kites soaring above us also highlight the economic potentials of the country, which must be explored in the coming years,” he added.

Speaking to Khmer Times, Ly Thuch said: “This event is another testament to Cambodia’s openness and the nation’s opening to the outer world. This is the message to the world that Khmer, a land of peace, is ready to host international events.

“Such events are going to contribute to the society and the national economy in much greater ways.”