Uzbekistan and EBRD to promote tourism

Memorandum of Mutual Understanding signing ceremony between the Ministry of Culture, the State Committee for Tourism Development of Uzbekistan and European Bank for Reconstruction and Development on cooperation in the field of tourism and cultural heritage took place at headquarters of EBRD in London.

On behalf of the EBRD, the document was signed by the First Vice President Philip Bennett. Speaking to the audience, he noted that he was sincerely glad that Uzbekistan was chosen as the first pilot country for the implementation of this project.

F. Bennett stressed that in his opinion, our country has unique cultural and historical heritage that can be effectively used to enhance competitive advantages in the global tourism market. Using a business model involving the active participation of the private sector and the population with the support of the government, the development of tourism through preservation and promotion of cultural heritage can become an important driver of economic growth in the country,.

The Memorandum envisages financing of projects related to cultural heritage sites, including those that contribute to the development of infrastructure, the preservation, sustainable management and exploitation of historical heritage, promotion of cultural tourism, and assistance in strengthening various instruments for the creation of an effective chain of sustainable development.

Based on a number of recommendations of Smithson Institute USA and the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), and by involving the private sector in development of  tourism industry, transfer of knowledge and experience, a strategic, integrated master plan for tourism development for Khiva and Khorezm regions as a whole, object of cultural heritage of Uzbekistan will be developed.

The Ambassador of Uzbekistan in United Kingdom, Alisher Shaykhov, stressed that having all the necessary conditions and resources, through the implementation of the "Cultural Heritage" program together with the EBRD and international partners, Uzbekistan is called upon to become one of the world tourism centers. According to him, the development of sustainable tourism in the country will allow not only to raise the industry, create new jobs, strengthen private enterprise, attract advanced experience and innovations, modernize the infrastructure, but also, expand the opportunities for residents of different parts of the world to sign further contact with the history and cultural heritage of the Great Silk Road.