Uzbekistan and Italy Plan Direct Flights to Boost Tourism

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — The leadership of the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan held an official meeting with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Italian Republic, Guido de Sanctis.

The parties analyzed the current state of bilateral relations in detail and outlined key vectors for deepening partnership in the hospitality industry. Special emphasis during the negotiations was placed on the steady growth of mutual interest, which is confirmed by statistical data: in the first five months of 2026 alone, about 18,000 Italian citizens visited Uzbekistan.

The program of interstate cooperation covers a wide range of areas, including cultural and creative tourism, effective management of world cultural heritage sites, gastronomic projects, and the branding of new transit routes.

In order to create a comfortable environment for European travelers, the diplomats and profile specialists discussed practical aspects of attracting leading Italian hotel chains and restaurant brands to the Uzbekistan market. The launch of regular direct air service between the cities of the two countries, operated by Italian airlines, is intended to be a crucial step toward intensifying tourist flows.

A separate section of the agenda was dedicated to the comprehensive development of the tourism potential of Uzbekistan's regions. In particular, the parties reviewed the preparation of master plans and long-term strategies for the Ferghana Valley, Kashkadarya Region, and Surxondaryo Region. The design of modern local infrastructure is planned to be carried out with the direct expert assistance of engaged Italian consulting companies.

Taking into account the projected increase in the inflow of foreign guests, the meeting participants recognized the formation of a qualified staff of tour guides and translators as a priority task. The parties reached an agreement on launching joint educational programs aimed at training and upgrading the qualifications of domestic tour guides who are professionally fluent in the Italian language, which will significantly improve the quality of service at key historical locations across the republic.