ID :
236042
Fri, 04/13/2012 - 09:11
Auther :

Malaysians Will Benefit From Uzbek's Tourist Fair - Envoy

Azzah Mohamad KUALA LUMPUR, April 13 (Bernama) -- Uzbekistan's envoy, Dr Shukur Sabitov, invites Malaysians to attend the 18th Tashkent International Tourist Fair, entitled 'Tourism on the Silk Road', which will be held in Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan from Oct 31 to Nov 2. He said that Malaysian individuals, travel agencies and companies could benefit from the fair, which is an important international forum in Central Asia. "It would also be an excellent platform for constructive dialogue between tourism partners," the ambassador to Malaysia said at a presentation on 'Tourism Potential of the Fergana Region' Thursday. Deputy Tourism Minister Dr James Dawos Mamit and Fergana Region Deputy Governor Shukhrat Turdikulov were also present. Speaking to Bernama, Sabitov said the fair was a valuable contribution to the development of the regional tourism market. Each year, Uzbekistan receives some 20,000 foreign tourists, including about 5,000 Malaysians, he said, noting that it was easier for Malaysians to visit Uzbekistan now, as the embassy has already started issuing visas to Malaysians without the need to provide "an invitation." "For Malaysians, no invitation is needed. People only need to come to the embassy and fill out the application form. After two working days we will issue the visa," he said. To attract more Malaysian tourists, direct flights to Uzbekistan will be increased to five times per week starting in June this year, from the previous three per week. Touching on the Fergana region, Sabitov said the region's government spends an average US$3 million per year to develop its tourism sector. "This money is spent to build campuses and also centres in order to develop the tourism sector," the ambassador said. The Fergana Valley is one of the prosperous regions of Uzbekistan and ranks high in the history and culture of Central Asia. Also called the Golden Valley, it offers ancient culture, historical and architectural monuments, and is known for its large blossoming oasis. Apart from the various tourist attractions in Uzbekistan, the country, which celebrated its 20th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Malaysia recently, also offers exotic and delicious food. In this aspect, Turdikulov said he hoped that 'Sumalak', Uzbekistan's special dish, cooked especially during the 'Navruz' month (Uzbekistan's New Year), would be included and promoted by international tourism associations. "It is a very special, healthy and considered an ancient food. It also has a very sweet taste," Turdikulov said. -- BERNAMA

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