President Mirziyoyev receives UN Tourism Secretary-General to discuss strategic partnership

During the talks, the head of the organization highly praised the extensive reforms being implemented in Uzbekistan's tourism sector. It was noted that consistent measures are underway to modernize tourism infrastructure and diversify services. These efforts include the expansion of flight geographies, the establishment of new museums, and the regular hosting of major cultural events.

The meeting highlighted the remarkable growth of the industry, noting that the number of tourists visiting the country has increased sixfold over the last eight years, reaching nearly 12 million. Looking ahead, Uzbekistan plans to increase this figure to 20 million by 2030, with a goal of raising tourism’s contribution to the national GDP to 7%.

Both parties expressed great satisfaction with the rapid development of the partnership between Uzbekistan and UN Tourism. Significant milestones include the successful hosting of the organization’s General Assembly in Samarkand in 2023 and the establishment of the International Tourism Academy. Furthermore, an office dedicated to "Tourism on the Silk Road" is set to open in the near future.

The partnership has also yielded diplomatic success on the global stage. At Uzbekistan's initiative, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring 2027 as the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism.

Concluding the meeting, the sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening their partnership. Future cooperation will focus on improving the international legal framework for tourism, implementing joint projects, expanding expert and technical collaboration, and training high-level professionals for the tourism industry.