Viet Nam is strengthening its collaboration with Laos and Cambodia to promote cross-border eco–tourism as part of existing ASEAN frameworks on sustainable tourism. The cooperation builds on the “Cambodia–Laos–Viet Nam (CLV) Development Triangle Area,” a real regional programme established to support green growth, cultural exchange, and responsible travel. Officials from the three countries have recently highlighted eco–tourism as a priority sector, given the region’s rich rainforests, river systems, and diverse ethnic cultures.
Environmental protection has been a central theme in CLV cooperation. Viet Nam and Laos already coordinate forest conservation in areas such as the Annamite Mountains, while Cambodia and Viet Nam jointly manage biodiversity around the Mekong and its wetlands. These shared ecosystems provide opportunities for eco–tourism activities like birdwatching, forest trekking, and community-based homestays. ASEAN’s “Sustainable Tourism Standards,” officially launched in 2022, are being adopted by Viet Nam to ensure eco–tourism sites minimise waste, protect wildlife habitats, and promote low-impact travel.
Community-based tourism is another area of active cooperation. Several Vietnamese provinces—Kon Tum, Gia Lai, Đắk Lắk, and Quảng Nam—have established links with neighbouring Lao and Cambodian localities to develop cultural routes featuring traditional crafts, gong performances, and village festivals. These programmes aim to generate income for ethnic minority communities while preserving indigenous knowledge. Viet Nam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism confirms that cross-border cultural exchanges and joint training for local guides are ongoing efforts supported by ASEAN funds.
ASEAN tourism officials expect eco–tourism to remain a key pillar of regional cooperation, especially as travellers seek nature-based and culturally authentic experiences. Viet Nam has committed to expanding green tourism models and improving transport connections to border provinces, allowing smoother travel between the three countries. While no single “eco–tourism trail” has been officially launched, existing CLV programmes and ASEAN sustainable tourism policies are laying the groundwork for future cross-border eco routes. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to protecting natural heritage and promoting responsible tourism across mainland Southeast Asia.
(Adapted from oecd)

In which paragraph does the passage mention travellers’ growing interest in nature-based experiences?