The Minister of Tourism and Sports Mr. Somsak Phurisrisak paid an official visit to Phetchaburi and Prachuab Khirikhan on 15th June 2013. He met and discussed with representatives from governmental offices and private sectors the problems, challenges and ways to develop both  Provinces according to the tourism promotion campaign, ‘Royal Coast’.
On this occasion, the Phetchaburi Governor Mr. Monthien Thongnit and the Chair of the Tourism Industry Council of Thailand Mrs. Piyaman Techapaibun gave a warm welcome to the Minister.
According to Mr. Somsak, the Thai government is aiming to increase the national tourism income to two billion Baht by 2015. A policy is now being formulated to development and promote tourism in every way, including the improvement of infrastructure to facilitate traveling to important tourist attractions, upgrading telecommunication as well as marketing of tourism activities. Additionally the Ministry of Tourism and Sports is concerned about safe travel with the use of modern technology and legal procedures. Since campaigning on tourism needs cooperation from all sectors, the Minister is now meeting and talking with several Thai ministerial executives about ways to solve problems and develop tourism in Thailand.
In terms of the tourism promotion campaign, ‘Royal Coast’ in Phetchaburi and Prachuab Khirikhan, Mr. Somsak said that this campaign would be extended to Chumporn and Ranong as well. These two Provinces also have long stretches of beautiful beaches and interesting historical places. All public and private organisations have to formulate strategic plans in their own areas for sustainable development before amalgamating them with Provincial and then National plans.
The Chair of the Tourism Industry Council of Thailand Mrs. Piyaman, thanked the Minister of Tourism and Sports, adding that she would like to invite him to other areas in Phetchaburi and Prachuab Khirikhan so that he learns more about wider challenges and problems.
Finally, the Chair of Tourism Business Association of Phetchaburi Mr. Wasan Kittikul proposed to the Thai government via the Minister a higher budget allocation in Phetchaburi and Prachuab Khirikhan.
