Kuala Lumpur, Oct. 26 -- India and ASEAN nations on Sunday said sustainable tourism should not only protect the environment but also strengthen the economic foundations of local communities.

Adopting the 'ASEAN-India Joint Leaders' Statement on Sustainable Tourism' during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Malaysia, leaders pledged to promote eco-friendly and inclusive tourism that supports long-term economic stability and community development across the region.

The statement highlighted the need to promote viable, sustainable economic activities that create stable employment, fair income opportunities, and an equitable distribution of benefits among all stakeholders.

The joint statement noted that economic stability is central to sustainable t...