Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- On 21 October 2021, at the twentieth plenary meeting of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the response of the Cabinet of Ministers to a previously sent parliamentary request on the state of implementation of measures aimed at recovery and development of tourism after the coronavirus pandemic was considered.

During the meeting, the government’s response to the parliamentary inquiry was discussed in detail. Thus, the senators particularly noted the adoption in Uzbekistan of a number of regulatory legal acts providing for the provision of tax benefits and preferences in order to restore the tourism sector, ensure the replacement of foreign tourists with local ones, as well as the provision of financial assistance to the tourism industry in the form of subsidies, loans, grants.

It was noted that 23 tourism organizations were allocated subsidies in the amount of 289.2 million soums, 3 three-star hotels under construction - in the amount of 1.2 billion soums, grants in the amount of 370.0 million soums were also allocated to 37 tour operators and 55.0 million soums to 11 translators. guides. In addition, 50 tour operators were allocated interest-free loans in the amount of 1.6 billion soums and 191 accommodation facilities - in the amount of 14.5 billion soums.

Measures were also taken to establish an "open skies" regime in a number of airports in the country, to expand the list of countries whose citizens can visit Uzbekistan without a visa. The system of sanitary and epidemiological safety "Uzbekistan / Safe travel GUARFNTEED" was introduced for tourists, the service "Fast Track" was launched for the first time.

Measures have been taken to establish new air and rail flights between the cities of Uzbekistan. A procedure has been introduced that provides for the provision of at least three days off during the celebration of some national holidays.

At the same time, within the framework of the discussions, the senators noted that along with the work done, there are some shortcomings, the elimination of which will contribute to the restoration and development of tourism in the country.

In particular, it is necessary to further improve the sanitary and hygienic safety system "Uzbekistan / Safe travel GUARFNTEED" based on the best international experience.

It is necessary to take specific measures to improve the system of organizing marketing research in order to develop transport logistics in the field of tourism and, above all, to increase the influx of tourists from neighboring countries, support entrepreneurship in the regions, simplify the allocation of land, improve the quality of tourism services, and search for new, promising markets.

In addition, the issue of reducing the cost of air tickets for foreign tourists remains relevant. These tickets cost on average 30-50% more than alternative routes.

Following an active discussion, a corresponding resolution of the Senate was adopted. It is planned to establish strict parliamentary control over the elimination of existing shortcomings.