Samarkand preparing for an important summit (photo report)

Of course, the jewel of the tourist center is the “Eternal City” ethno-city. Craftsmen’s workshops, trade stalls, and national food centers were built here according to ancient architectural traditions.

Most importantly, a huge arboretum has appeared on 170 hectares. The number of trees planted there is more than 25,000. There are countless bushes, shrubs and flowers. The chief agronomist of the complex, Yorkin Khojiyev, told us about the work done.

“Each tree was given special attention. The chemical composition of the soil, the fertilizers given to the trees – everything is taken into account. The area is a very difficult place. Because the underground waters are near. In addition, 95% of the trees are imported. We kept them in a greenhouse for 2 years to adapt them to the local dry climate,” Yorkin Khojiyev says.

It should be noted that the Samarkand rowing canal, which is one of three in the world, was also renovated. It will continue to perform its function and host national and international sports competitions in the future. A Samarkand flotilla consisting of 9 ships was established in the channel. Also 6 more light boats have been delivered. Catamarans of the old rowing canal are also being renovated. So, the canal is specialized in taking tourists and local residents for a walk along the canal during non-sports events.

Flotilla boatman Mamikon Akopyan, an Armenian sailor who has been a boatman on sailing frigates for many years, is teaching local young men how to operate a ship.

One of the most attractive areas in the tourist center of Samarkand is the musical fountain, which at night is illuminated by several different lights and can simultaneously shoot water up to 50 meters.

In a word, Samarkand prepared very well for an important international event. As a souvenir of this event, hotels that meet world standards, a huge park, and playgrounds remained. The city streets were beautified. Tens of thousands of trees, shrubs and flowers were planted.

After the Shanghai Cooperation Organization events, this wonderful town will be opened to both local residents and foreign tourists, and will become a wonderful leisure destination. Now it’s time to protect this masterpiece like the apple of an eye.