Kazakhstan can offer the world unique tours - Alikhan Smailov

Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Alikhan Smailov spoke at the International Forum on Tourism Development, which is being held in Aktau with the participation of over 300 representatives of the tourism business of Kazakhstan and other countries of the world, Kazinform reports with reference to primeminister.kz.

Among the participants of the event are SCO ministers, heads of international hotel chains, major Kazakh and foreign tour operators, airlines, as well as investors, international experts, representatives of the diplomatic corps and government agencies.

In his speech, the Prime Minister noted that the state attaches great importance to the development of tourism, popularization of culture and traditions of the republic. Thus, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, in his recent Address to the nation, instructed to implement breakthrough projects in this area.

"We have identified 10 priority tourist areas where anchor projects will be implemented. One of them is the coast of the Caspian Sea. This is a unique place with unique fauna, picturesque beaches and ancient sights. We aim to create the most comfortable conditions for each guest. The efforts of both the state and the private sector are aimed at this," Alikhan Smailov said.

According to him, investors who create new objects and projects that do not harm the environment are actively attracted to organize tourist flows and preserve biodiversity.

"A vivid example of such efforts is the emergence of business centers and eco-hotels in such locations as Ile-Alatau, Charyn and Altyn-Emel. Following the principles of environmental sustainability, we are working to move from the principle of "number of tourists" to improving the quality of their visits," the head of Government stressed.

As Alikhan Smailov noted, Kazakhstan can offer unique tours that can compete at the international level. For example, comprehensive trips along the Great Silk Road and the Caspian Sea, visiting places such as Baikonur and Burabay, as well as the 4 Seasons tour in Almaty.

The Prime Minister reminded that today the list of countries whose citizens can stay in Kazakhstan without a visa has been increased to 80. At the same time, the geography of international flights is expanding.

"Since last year, state support measures have covered projects for the construction of tourism facilities, the development of ski resorts and the purchase of tourist buses. The state also provides subsidies to tour operators for foreign tourists. In addition, children's air tickets are subsidized for citizens of Kazakhstan traveling within the country, " Alikhan Smailov said.

According to him, in general, over the past 3 years, investments in the amount of $4 billion have been attracted to the industry, more than 400 tourist facilities have been built. Hotels of over 20 well-known international chains, including Hilton, Marriott, Wyndham, Accor and others, have opened their doors in the republic.

"We invite foreign and domestic investors to consider the tourism sector of Kazakhstan as an opportunity for long — term investment with the support of the Government of the country," Alikhan Smailov stressed.

At the same time, he noted that as part of increasing the international competitiveness of Kazakhstan's tourism, it is important to strengthen interdepartmental coordination to promote the image of Kazakhstan abroad. In this regard, it is necessary to develop a tourist brand of the country, as well as strengthen the promotion of Kazakhstan in the international information space.

"It is necessary to take measures to further improve the visa and migration regime, simplify the procedures for both obtaining visas and passing control at airports," the Prime Minister said.

To increase investment activity, it is also necessary to work out an increase in the terms of concessional lending to tourism projects and strengthen state support measures to bring infrastructure to tourism facilities.

"We see that it is the connection of infrastructure to various tourist destinations that is of great importance. This is what business says. We intend to increase support on this issue both at the national and local levels, " the head of Government said.

Along with this, Alikhan Smailov pointed out the need to solve the quality issues of roadside service facilities and develop measures for the development of agrotourism.

"Rural residents, farmers and gardeners will be able to earn additional income by hosting tourists on their farms. To do this, we need to make appropriate changes to the legislation. Community based tourism is a global trend, and we should not lag behind it, " he said.

The Prime Minister noted that it is important to solve the issues of funding the corporate Fund for the support of the tourism and sports industry with the right to finance projects not only in the field of sports, but also in tourism. Alikhan Smailov added that the industry has a great potential for development, can provide additional employment and increase the incomes of citizens.

"As part of improving the quality of services, it is necessary to continue working on digitalization of the industry. It is important to take measures aimed at ensuring the safety of tourists, especially in mountainous areas. In addition, we need to start work on reforming the hotel classification system and raising standards to the international level, " Alikhan Smailov stressed.

In conclusion, the Prime Minister invited the forum participants to attend the World Nomad Games, which will be held in the capital of Kazakhstan next year.

"I am sure that this large-scale event will surprise guests with the color and culture of nomadic peoples," he said.

Following the forum, Kazakhstan and foreign tourism companies signed agreements on mutual cooperation.

https://www.inform.kz/ru/kazahstan-mozhet-predlozhit-miru-unikal-nye-tury-alihan-smailov_a4112057