Uzbekistan To Learn From Malaysia On Drawing More Tourists

By Nabilah Saleh KUALA LUMPUR, June 18 (Bernama) -- Uzbekistan is keen to learn from Malaysia on developing tourism into a major sector of the country's economy, said its ambassador here, Shukur Sabitov. "Looking at Malaysia's experience in tourism activities, we are delighted to seek advice from the Malaysian tourism industry on how to increase the number of foreign tourists to Uzbekistan," he said in an interview with Bernama at the embassy, Monday. Sabitov said Uzbekistan, which celebrated its 21st anniversary of independence this year, is placing great importance on studying the experiences of advanced countries in developing tourism. "As a young independent state, tourism is important to us. By organising 'Infotours', we hope to establish more diplomatic and good relations with Malaysia's delegations, Malaysian tourism companies, travel agencies as well as journalists and media practitioners," he said. To date, the embassy in Kuala Lumpur has organised participation of more than 50 representatives from Malaysia through 'Infotours' to promote Uzbekistan's tourism potential in the international tourism markets. It is organising a similar familiarisation trip to Uzbekistan from June 22 to 28. "As for this June 2012 trip, I hope Malaysian travel agencies and journalists will be able to familiarise and witness the tourism potential of Uzbekistan, existing opportunities and infrastructure, famous historical monuments in Tashkent, Bukhara and Samarkand, and not forgetting to enjoy the sweet fruits, cuisine and local hospitality," he added. Sabitov noted that Feb 21 marked the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and Uzbekistan. "There are more than 20 Malaysian companies running their business in our country, including Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas). Of course, we are looking for more exchange in trade as we are targeting bilateral trade to reach US$80 million (RM252.7 million) this year. Hopefully, the number will come from the tourism industry itself," he said. Asked why the three cities - Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara - were chosen for the visit, Sabitov said they were among the ancient cities of the world with their history dating back around 2,500 years. "All of them are places where Islamic civilisation took place and many (people) are interested to visit historical places in those cities," he said, noting that Samarkand and Bukhara are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. -- BERNAMA