Uzbekistan, China Expand Cooperation in Tourism Sector

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A specialized forum on developing cooperation between Uzbekistan and China in the field of tourism was held on 21 May in Xi’an, China, as part of the Third Interregional Uzbekistan–China Forum.

The event focused on expanding tourism ties between the two countries, developing joint tourist routes, and implementing new investment projects in the sector.

The forum was attended by a delegation led by the Chairman of the Committee on Tourism of the Republic of Uzbekistan Abdullaziz Akkulov, as well as more than 40 representatives of tourism companies, tourism and recreation zones, tourist complexes, and airlines operating in Uzbekistan.

It was noted that the inclusion of tourism among the key areas of the forum underscores its importance within the framework of strategic cooperation between the two countries.

In his speech, Abdullaziz Akkulov proposed expanding tourism routes for Chinese visitors, considering the opening of mid-range and high-end hotels under Chinese brands, and developing resorts, health centers, and family and adventure tourism facilities in Uzbekistan’s tourism zones.

He also put forward initiatives to create themed parks and entertainment complexes using advanced Chinese experience and technologies, to develop business tourism (MICE), to attract international corporate events, banks and associations, and to promote regional MICE destinations.

During the forum, presentations were held on Uzbekistan’s tourism potential, including the historical and cultural heritage of Bukhara, eco- and pilgrimage tourism opportunities in Kashkadarya region, Samarkand’s significance in world civilization, and the tourism infrastructure of Tashkent and Tashkent region.

Participants were also introduced to the Miraki and Arda Khiva tourist complexes, ecotourism destinations in the Aydarkul area, and the potential of the Amirsoy Mountain Resort ski destination.

Special attention was given to reforms in Uzbekistan’s tourism sector, the development of new routes, hotel infrastructure, and improved conditions for foreign investors.

Within the forum, B2B meetings were held with the participation of more than 200 tour operators and representatives of the tourism industries of both countries, aimed at expanding cooperation and increasing tourist flows to Uzbekistan.