Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan discuss expanding tourism ties

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Diplomats from Uzbekistan’s Consulate General held an online meeting with representatives of Kazakhstan’s Tourism Kamkor Foundation and leading travel companies from both countries, the Dunyo news agency reported.

During the talks, the sides discussed prospects for increasing tourist flows from Kazakhstan to Uzbekistan, taking into account the current нестабильной situation in the Middle East and globally, as well as issues related to further development of bilateral cooperation in the tourism sector and the removal of existing barriers.

Particular attention was paid to the possible reopening of border checkpoints temporarily closed for repairs, the creation of additional conditions for tourists, the development of medical tourism, and strengthening promotional efforts to position Uzbekistan as a travel destination.

The participants also discussed measures to simplify and expand railway ticket sales, including for high-speed Afrosiyob trains, as well as the possibility of creating a dedicated digital booking platform. In addition, prospects were considered for expanding the tourist train Keruen Express operated by Kazakhstan’s KOMPAS company.

According to the Kazakh side, more than 100,000 travel packages to Middle Eastern destinations are currently on hold.

In this context, participants noted the potential to redirect tourist flows to Uzbekistan as an alternative destination.

Following the meeting, the sides agreed to prepare in the coming days a joint letter with proposals from Kazakh tourism companies, coordinated with the Tourism Kamkor Foundation, for further consideration.