Tourism has become a strategic development priority for Uzbekistan, contributing to economic growth while strengthening international relations, cultural exchange and public diplomacy. The country is also expanding cooperation with fellow members of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) to promote the Turkic world as a shared tourism destination.
The cooperation draws on common historical and cultural roots, shared traditions and close ties among the region’s peoples. Uzbekistan views these connections as a foundation for developing tourism beyond individual national markets.
Since joining the OTS in 2019, Uzbekistan has seen growing cooperation with member states in tourism. Regular dialogue between relevant institutions has supported joint initiatives aimed at creating a more integrated tourism space.
One important development has been the establishment of the OTS Tourism Council, which coordinates efforts to develop joint travel routes, exchange expertise, improve service standards and strengthen tourism infrastructure.
Great Silk Road Connects Historic Cities
The Unified Tourist Route known as “The Great Silk Road” is a major example of regional cooperation. It connects historic and cultural destinations across the Turkic world, including Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva in Uzbekistan, as well as Baku, Almaty, Bishkek and Ankara.
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The route offers visitors opportunities to explore historic architecture, cultural heritage, local traditions and national cuisines across participating countries.
Uzbekistan holds a prominent place in the initiative because of its concentration of internationally recognised historical monuments and sites associated with the region’s cultural heritage.
In recent years, the country has undertaken extensive work to restore heritage sites, modernise tourism infrastructure and improve transport and logistics for visitors.
Tourism Education and Professional Development
Training skilled professionals is another priority in Uzbekistan’s tourism cooperation with OTS members.
The country works with universities in Türkiye, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan and other member states on student exchanges, internships, seminars and joint research projects.
These programmes aim to equip tourism professionals with modern skills in management, marketing and digital technologies. They also help strengthen professional networks and promote cultural understanding among participating countries.
Visa Facilitation and Digital Services
Visa facilitation has also helped expand tourism links across the region. According to the statement, bilateral agreements between Uzbekistan and OTS countries have enabled visa-free travel, contributing to increased tourist flows.
A single electronic visa for travel across several Turkic countries is being considered as a possible future initiative. The proposal aims to make multi-country travel easier for visitors purchasing combined tourism packages.
Uzbekistan also supports the creation of a shared digital platform that would provide tourists with information about routes, booking services, visitor reviews and cultural events.
Regional Forums Promote Joint Tourism
International exhibitions and tourism forums remain important channels for promoting the region’s collective tourism potential.
Uzbekistan regularly presents its tourism offerings at international fairs and hosts events designed to strengthen regional cooperation. The Forum of Tourism Ministers of OTS member states in Samarkand was highlighted as an important opportunity to discuss industry challenges and establish long-term priorities.
These initiatives are intended to increase travel between member countries and attract more visitors to the region.
More Than 6.15 Million Visitors From OTS Region
The statement said that more than 6.15 million tourists from the OTS region visited the participating countries over the past year, reflecting the scale of tourism links within the Turkic world.
The region’s historical heritage, cultural diversity, natural landscapes and hospitality provide a broad tourism offering for international travellers.
Uzbekistan has pledged to continue supporting this shared ambition through new projects, stronger institutional cooperation and initiatives aimed at creating a more connected tourism market among Turkic states.
