Visit of the Secretary-General of “UN Tourism” to Uzbekistan: a course toward strategic partnership and sustainable tourism development
The Secretary-General of “UN Tourism,” Shaikha Nasser Al Nuwais, arrived in Uzbekistan on an official visit.
During the visit, the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, received the head of the World Tourism Organization. According to the presidential press service, the parties discussed issues related to further expanding the multifaceted and long-term cooperation between Uzbekistan and this specialized UN agency.
The head of “UN Tourism” highly appreciated the large-scale reforms being carried out in the country in the field of tourism. In particular, consistent measures are being implemented to modernize tourism infrastructure and diversify services, expand air connectivity, create new museums, and regularly host major cultural events.
It was especially noted that over the past eight years, the number of tourists visiting Uzbekistan has increased sixfold, reaching nearly 12 million. By 2030, this figure is expected to rise to 20 million, while the share of tourism in the country’s GDP is planned to reach 7 percent.
The growing momentum of cooperation between Uzbekistan and “UN Tourism” was noted with satisfaction. In 2023, the organization’s General Assembly was successfully held in Samarkand, the International Tourism Academy was established, and the opening of the Thematic Office “Tourism on the Silk Road” is planned in the near future.
In addition, at Uzbekistan’s initiative, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring 2027 the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism.
During the talks, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further developing cooperation, including improving the international legal framework in tourism, implementing joint projects, expanding expert and technical collaboration, and training highly qualified professionals for the sector.
As part of the visit, the Secretary-General also met with Gayane Umerova, Chairperson of the Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation, and Abdulaziz Akkulov, Chairman of the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
During the dialogue, particular attention was paid to sustainable tourism development as an important tool for shaping Uzbekistan’s positive international image and strengthening its position on the global stage.
It was noted that ongoing reforms are aimed not only at infrastructure modernization but also at strengthening the institutional capacity of cultural diplomacy. The development of cultural and event tourism is seen as a key element of the state strategy to diversify the economy, attract foreign investment, and expand intercultural dialogue.
Within the framework of Uzbekistan’s Development Strategy until 2030, tourism is defined as one of the key drivers of sustainable economic growth. In this regard, cooperation with “UN Tourism” is of strategic importance, opening up additional opportunities for implementing international standards, digitalizing the sector, and training qualified specialists.
The parties also discussed prospects for implementing joint initiatives, including educational programs, support for traditional crafts, and the development of the creative economy. It was emphasized that such projects not only enhance the country’s tourism appeal but also contribute to preserving national identity in the context of globalization.
Following the meetings, both sides confirmed their mutual interest in further deepening cooperation, reflecting Uzbekistan’s commitment to active integration into the global tourism space and strengthening its status as one of the key tourism centers in the region.
