- President Mirziyoyev emphasized the urgency of adopting an International Action Program for the development of “green” tourism
- Introduction of visa-free access for citizens from around 100 countries
- Uzbekistan has expanded its hotel accommodations to 140 thousands seats and established 70 new tourist routes
The 25th session of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) General Assembly commenced with a grand opening ceremony in the historic city of Samarkand on October 16, 2023. The assembly, set to run until October 20, is a significant gathering for the global tourism industry. Speaking at the gathering, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan unveiled a series of ground breaking initiatives aimed at propelling the nation’s tourism sector to new heights.
President Mirziyoyev emphasized the dynamic and promising nature of the tourism industry within the world economy. Uzbekistan has been prioritizing tourism development as part of a broader strategy to modernize the country. Recent years have seen the introduction of visa-free access for citizens from around 100 countries and simplified electronic visa procedures for individuals from an additional 55 nations.
In addition to these efforts, Uzbekistan has created favorable conditions for tourism businesses, offering tax and customs benefits while bolstering credit and financial support. The country has expanded its hotel accommodations to 140 thousands seats and established 70 new tourist routes. Furthermore, six private airlines have commenced operations. These measures have resulted in a doubling of foreign tourist arrivals and a fourfold increase in revenue from tourist services.
By the end of this year, Uzbekistan is projected to welcome an estimated seven million tourists. The ambitious goal is to reach 15 million foreign tourists and 25 million domestic travelers by 2030. These initiatives have been recognized internationally, with Uzbekistan securing high rankings as one of the safest and fastest-growing tourist destinations.
The President highlighted that Uzbekistan’s vision for the integrated development of tourism until 2030 places significant importance on creating modern tourism and transport infrastructure. Plans include the construction of new high-speed roads and railways, an expansion of the transportation fleet, and a significant increase in the number of flights. Moreover, Uzbekistan aims to establish 30 major tourist clusters in its cities and popular tourist destinations. Addressing the growing concerns of climate change, President Mirziyoyev emphasized the urgency of adopting an International Action Program for the development of “green” tourism.
The assembly also addressed the need to improve conditions for travellers with limited mobility and develop inclusive tourism infrastructure. President Mirziyoyev proposed declaring 2025 as the “World Year of Inclusive Tourism” and urged the adoption of a special declaration. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of establishing a Global Media Campus and holding forums every two years during UNWTO General Assembly sessions, with Uzbekistan expressing its readiness to host the inaugural media campus.
Concluding his address, President Mirziyoyev called on delegates to support the initiative to declare Samarkand as the “World Capital of Cultural Tourism” and adopt a corresponding declaration. He expressed his best wishes for the successful outcome of the General Assembly and the realization of new breakthrough achievements in the field of tourism. The assembly represents a pivotal moment for Uzbekistan and the global tourism industry, signifying the country’s commitment to fostering a thriving and inclusive tourism sector.
About Author: Gulmira Shukurova is Chief editor of the scientific and methodological electronic journal and portal Foreign Languages in Uzbekistan, lecturer of UzSWLU and 
UzJMU, as well as Co-founder and media trainer of NGO New Media Education Center.
The author of academic books such a “PR in modern media environment”,“Journalist’s safety” and articles. The specialist in Journalism, Conflict-sensitive journalism, Crisis communication, Media Literacy, Public Relations.
Participated in local and international programs on journalism, such a IVLP,Distinguished Humphrey Fellowship (USA), PfP Media and Communication Course (MIKA,Switzerland).She has 15 years of experience in journalism, PR.
