Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- A presentation of the tourism potential of Uzbekistan was held at the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Russia, organized jointly with the State Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan for development of tourism.

The event was attended by leaders and representatives of travel agencies of two countries, the State Committee for Tourism Development of the Republic of Uzbekistan, members of the Uzbek diaspora and journalists.

As part of the event, a ceremony was held to appoint the Ambassador of the tourism brand of Uzbekistan to Russia. People’s Artist of Russia, the famous actor, director and public figure, a great friend of Uzbekistan Yuri Stoyanov took the office.

Expressing gratitude to the Uzbek side for such high trust, the artist said that he had close family ties with Uzbekistan. Her mother moved to Tashkent during World War II and lived in this city for a long time. She spoke very warmly about the Uzbek people, their hospitality and kindness of the soul. The actor himself is a frequent guest of Uzbekistan and always feels sincerely sensitive attitude to each guest.

Yuri Stoyanov stressed that with all his own strength and capabilities he will promote the tourism potential of Uzbekistan in Russia, tell about the history, culture, modern development, true values and traditions of the country at all levels and platforms.

In an interview with journalists, the actor noted the lack of the need to create a “brand of Uzbekistan”, since it already exists for thousands of years, from the times of the Great Silk Road. It is only necessary on a systematic basis to promote this brand on the world stage, to “remind” the public about the glorious past of the Uzbek land, the huge contribution of its sons to the development of world science, culture and civilization.

Recalling his first visit to Tashkent, Stoyanov said that the reality far exceeded his expectations.

- You know, in the tourism industry there are such concepts as expectations and reality, - he said. - The success of the state’s tourist image largely depends on how far the expectations of the traveler correspond to the realities of the country. When with Uzbekistan, in particular, its capital, I expected to see a small town, but I ended up in a huge metropolis, immersed in greenery. Everywhere order and cleanliness reigns, and people are distinguished by sincere benevolence. I was fascinated by this city and this country.

According to the newly appointed ambassador for tourism, Uzbekistan is not so much a partner for Russia, but a close friend. The country in recent years has embarked on large-scale reforms, changing for the better.