Uzbekistan and Kashgar to expand tourism cooperation

Uzbekistan and the Kashgar Prefecture intend to deepen cooperation in tourism. During a working visit to China, Abdulaziz Akkulov, Chairman of the Uzbekistan Tourism Committee, met with Nizhat Niyaz, Head of the Kashgar Prefecture. The main topics of discussion were expanding practical cooperation in the tourism industry, developing historical cities, implementing investment projects, and increasing tourism exchanges, according to the Tourism Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

At the meeting, it was emphasized that the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and China opens new horizons for regional cooperation. Particular attention was paid to Kashgar's experience in preserving the city's historical appearance while simultaneously developing modern tourism infrastructure.

From 2021 to 2025, 134 billion yuan has been allocated for tourism development in Kashgar. During the restoration of the old part of the city, its historic architecture was preserved, while road infrastructure, water supply and sewerage systems, street lighting, and security systems were modernized. Gastronomic, shopping, and cultural attractions are actively developing for tourists, and various cultural events are held daily.

The parties also studied the system for recording and managing tourist flows in Kashgar. Data from airports, rail and road transport, hotels, mobile operators, and QR code systems is used for monitoring. In 2025, the city received 5.2 million tourists, and approximately 200,000 people were employed in the tourism sector.

The khokims of Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, and Kokand participated in the study of this experience. Direct communication with the mayor of Kashgar was also established during the visit, creating opportunities for further exchange of experience between the cities.

The meeting participants discussed expanding investment cooperation and attracting companies and investors from Kashgar to tourism projects in Uzbekistan. Potential areas identified included the development of historical cities and tourist zones, and the construction of modern hotels and entertainment complexes.

The parties also proposed organizing an exchange of experience between specialists involved in the management of historical territories, tourism services, and the regulation of tourist flows.

Particular attention was paid to strengthening tourism ties between Kashgar and cities in Uzbekistan. In particular, it was proposed to consider opening a Kashgar-Samarkand air route. Following the talks, the parties agreed to continue working to increase tourism exchange, implement investment projects, exchange experiences, and develop direct ties between the regions.

During his visit, Abdulaziz Akkulov also visited historical and tourist sites in Kashgar. In the Ancient City of Kashgar, the Uzbek delegation was introduced to its opening ceremony, as well as approaches to managing, operating, and developing the site as a tourist destination.

At the Gaotai Historical Residential Complex, the participants studied the reconstruction, preservation, and protection of historic cities and sites popular with tourists in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.

The delegation also visited Xiangfei Park, where they learned about practices for combining culture and tourism, using cultural heritage sites for tourism, and creating an attractive environment for travelers.

The approaches studied in Kashgar will be incorporated into the development of the tourism potential of Uzbekistan's historic cities, enhancing their attractiveness, and improving their tourism infrastructure.