Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan and Marriott International have discussed expanding cooperation in tourism and hospitality, including hotel development projects, international tourism promotion and professional training for the hospitality industry.
The discussions took place in Tashkent during a meeting between Abdulaziz Akkulov, Chairman of Uzbekistan's Tourism Committee, and Pankaj Birla, Marriott International's Regional Vice President for Eastern Europe.
Uzbek officials outlined ongoing reforms in the country's tourism sector, measures to improve the investment climate and conditions designed to attract international hotel brands.
The presentation also covered subsidies and incentives available to investors seeking to develop hospitality projects in Uzbekistan.
Birla provided an overview of Marriott International's operations and future development plans. He described Uzbekistan and Central Asia as promising markets for the international hotel group.
The participants also exchanged views on the planned development of The Ritz-Carlton hotel in Tashkent.
Another area of discussion was the potential entry of internationally recognized restaurant brands into Uzbekistan and opportunities to develop gastronomic tourism.
The two sides also considered establishing educational programmes and internships at Marriott International hotels for students specializing in tourism and hospitality.
Such initiatives were discussed as potential areas of cooperation in professional training and workforce development.
The meeting also addressed cooperation with international bloggers and media organizations to promote Uzbekistan's tourism potential in foreign markets.
Participants explored opportunities to use digital tools associated with Marriott Bonvoy, the company's international loyalty programme, to showcase Uzbekistan's historical and cultural heritage, cuisine and tourist destinations.
The proposed cooperation would focus on promoting the country's tourism offerings through the programme's digital capabilities.
International partners are expected to prepare proposals outlining possible areas for further cooperation in this field.
Following the negotiations, both sides agreed to maintain dialogue and further explore promising joint initiatives in tourism and hospitality.
