President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan held a meeting on April 1 with Zurab Pololikashvili, the Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), who is visiting the country. The discussions focused on prospects for further expanding cooperation in the tourism sector, with both sides highlighting ongoing efforts to modernize infrastructure and boost visitor numbers.

President Mirziyoyev outlined measures being implemented in Uzbekistan, including the modernization of tourism infrastructure, expansion of air connections, establishment of new museums, and hosting of major cultural events. The UN Tourism head reportedly praised these reforms, noting that the flow of foreign tourists has increased sixfold over the past eight years, reaching nearly 12 million people, a figure that authorities aim to raise to 20 million by 2030, with tourism's share of GDP targeted at 7%.

The meeting also reviewed active collaboration dynamics, such as the 2023 UN Tourism General Assembly held in Samarkand, the creation of an International Tourism Academy, and the upcoming opening of a thematic office for "Tourism on the Silk Road." Additionally, it was emphasized that, at Uzbekistan's initiative, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring 2027 the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism.

In conclusion, both parties confirmed their readiness to deepen partnership through joint projects, improvement of the legal framework, and training of qualified personnel for the industry, underscoring a commitment to leveraging tourism for economic growth amid global challenges.

Source: kun.uz