Erdenet Kasymov, Director of the Department of Tourism at Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Economy and Commerce, believes that tourism is a sector where regional integration in Central Asia could yield rapid and visible results. He presented a vision for the region as a unified tourism destination, speaking at the second B5+1 Business Forum of Central Asia and the United States on February 4 in Bishkek.
“For tourists from distant markets, Central Asia is perceived as a single space—and this is an opportunity that is important to leverage jointly,” Kasymov stated.
He noted that Kyrgyzstan supports the concept of promoting Central Asia as a unified tourist destination for visitors from the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and East Asia.
“In these markets, tourists don’t choose one country—they choose a unique experience. It is the Silk Road routes, mountain and cultural tours that combine three to five countries that generate the greatest interest among international tour operators,” he explained.
Among specific measures to support this vision, Kasymov noted the need to transition to joint tourism products, including routes that combine Kyrgyzstan’s mountain and adventure tourism with the historic cities of neighboring countries, as well as tours that reveal the region’s shared nomadic heritage.
“Kyrgyzstan views the regional tourism brand, including the Open Central Asia concept, not as a replacement for national brands, but as a superstructure that strengthens each country. A practical step is the coordinated participation of Central Asian countries in key international tourism exhibitions and the synchronization of priority promotion markets,” he noted.
Kasymov stressed the importance of unifying basic quality standards and joint educational initiatives, as well as scaling up community-based tourism (CBT) practices.
He also emphasized the importance of simplifying border procedures and developing transport infrastructure.
“Even the most effective marketing is ineffective if tourists encounter logistical barriers. Ensuring seamless travel within the region is critical for the development of regional routes. Kyrgyzstan consistently supports the simplification and digitalization of visa and border procedures,” said Kasymov.
