Highlighting the impact of the boycott call on the Maldives, Nasheed said, "It has impacted the Maldives a lot, and I am actually here in India. I am very worried about this. I want to say the people of the Maldives are sorry, we are sorry that this has happened. We want Indian people to come on their holidays to the Maldives, and there will not be any change in our hospitality." External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that misunderstandings could happen between nations and expressed optimism in resolving the dispute via diplomatic talks.
A Bangladesh visa centre will be opened in Silchar) soon, following considerable demand from people of the districts of Cachar, Karimganj and Hailakandi. "The date of opening the facility is yet to be finalised, but it will be done soon. Our government always emphasises on maintaining a good relationship with India. Applications will be received and visas for a trip to Bangladesh will be issued from here
Traditional Lunar New Year customs, such as setting off fireworks and distributing red envelopes filled with money, were observed across Asia. In South Korea, lengthy queues of vehicles formed on highways as millions left the bustling Seoul capital region to visit relatives nationwide. Tourist attractions, including royal palaces, attracted throngs of visitors adorned in traditional "hanbok" attire.
Singapore anticipates tourism receipts for 2023 to range between SG $24.5 billion and SG $26 billion, surpassing STB's earlier forecast of S $18 billion to SG $21 billion. This represents approximately 88% to 94% of 2019 levels. The final figures for tourism receipts will be disclosed in the second quarter of 2024.
The expansion, most of which will kick in after this year, comes as Bill Heinecke, chairman of the Bangkok-based company, said he expects “extraordinary” 2023 results and an even better performance this year. The Thai government’s tourism-promotion measures such as visa waivers and an extension of operating hours for entertainment venues have been crucial to growth in Minor’s home market.