SCO strengthens tourism cooperation: focus on digitalization and a single space

On July 7, a meeting of the heads of tourism administrations of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization member states was held in Qingdao, China. The meeting was another step towards creating a more integrated and mutually beneficial tourism space within the SCO. First Deputy Chairman of the Committee on Tourism Jamshid Abdusalamov took part in the meeting from Uzbekistan.

The purpose of the event is to strengthen multilateral cooperation in the field of tourism and develop coordinated solutions to stimulate tourist flows between the participating countries. Special attention was paid to the simplification of visa procedures, the development of cross-border interstate routes, as well as the organization of joint cultural, event and exhibition programs.

In his speech, Jamshid Abdusalamov outlined the priorities of Uzbekistan in the field of international tourism. He stressed the importance of developing cultural, ecological and event tourism as drivers of sustainable growth. In addition, Abdusalamov presented the republic's experience in implementing digital technologies-from online booking platforms to national tourist superapps, which significantly improved the quality of service and increased market transparency.

Among the proposals supported by the participants of the meeting are the need for regular exchange of marketing and analytical data, as well as coordination of the strategy for promoting the region as a single destination. Participants noted that effective synergy is possible only if there is a systematic dialogue between national authorities, tour operators and businesses.

Following the meeting, all parties confirmed their commitment to the idea of forming a common tourism space of the SCO. The next steps include launching coordinated campaigns in international markets, developing joint brands, and integrating digital platforms that ensure transparency and accessibility of member countries ' tourism products.

Against the background of growing competition in the global tourism market, partnership within the SCO is becoming particularly important. It allows not only to combine efforts for promotion, but also to strengthen mutual investments in infrastructure, personnel and marketing technologies.