DEPARTMENT of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco welcomed Ambassador-designate to Sweden Patrick A. Chuasoto in a courtesy visit at the DOT office in Makati on Friday (February 21). The meeting underscored the commitment of both officials to bolstering tourism and economic cooperation between the Philippines and Sweden, while also reinforcing diplomatic relations.
The Tourism Chief welcomed the Ambassador-designate’s visit and emphasized the importance of deepening tourism relations with Sweden, a priority market in Northern Europe, noting pending finalization of the Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) on Tourism between the Philippines and Sweden, which is expected to open more opportunities for sustainable tourism, tourism investments, and enhanced air connectivity between the two countries that the Ambassador and his team could help facilitate.
Meanwhile, Ambassador-designate Chuasoto, who holds concurrent jurisdiction over Latvia, broached potential avenues for enhancing tourism linkages, trade and infrastructure investment by Swedes in the country. He likewise reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the DOT’s initiatives and in facilitating collaborations between Philippine and Swedish tourism stakeholders considering the economic and livelihood opportunities it could bring to the country.
The courtesy visit reflects the continued efforts of the DOT and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to strengthen the Philippines’ international presence and reinforce tourism as a major driver of economic growth.
Tourist arrivals from Sweden reached 18,918 in 2024, marking a steady increase in visitor interest from the Scandinavian region. Swedish travelers primarily visit the Philippines for leisure, with a significant number exploring the country’s diverse islands, pristine beaches, and adventure tourism offerings.
Together with Ambassador-designate Chuasoto at the courtesy visit was DFA Director Benjamin Celedio, Jr. The visiting team pledged to work closely with the DOT officials in furthering the tourism industry interests of the Philippines in Sweden. Joining Secretary Frasco in welcoming the ambassador-designate’s party were Undersecretaries Shahlimar Hofer Tamano and Verna Buensuceso as well as Assistant Secretary Judilyn Quiachon.
Editor’s Note: This article has been sourced from the Department of Tourism – Philippines Facebook Page.
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