Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — On the sidelines of the ITB Berlin 2026 international tourism exhibition, Abdulaziz Akkulov, Chairman of the Committee for Tourism of the Republic of Uzbekistan, met with Sheikha Nasser Al Nowais, Secretary-General of UN Tourism.
During the talks, both sides discussed the development of sustainable tourism, expanding cooperation between member states and the private sector, engagement with UN institutions, as well as capacity building and strengthening institutional partnerships in implementing national tourism strategies.
The UN Tourism Secretary-General noted that on 2 February 2026, the organization approved a roadmap for the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism 2027, an initiative launched by the President of Uzbekistan.
She expressed readiness to collaborate closely with Uzbekistan in preparing and implementing activities planned under this initiative. She emphasized that sustainable and resilient tourism is a key driver of socio-economic growth, job creation, and regional development.
The parties also agreed to hold one of the official events marking the opening of the International Year of Sustainable and Resilient Tourism in Uzbekistan at the end of this year.
Following the meeting, the Chairman of the Tourism Committee invited the UN Tourism Secretary-General to visit Uzbekistan on an official trip.
Both sides confirmed their mutual interest in advancing joint initiatives aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of the tourism sector and strengthening long-term cooperation.
