Bishkek, July 17, 2026. /Kabar/. Today, July 17, the 3rd Youth Forum on tourism development of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states was held in Bishkek at the Ala-Archa State Nature Park. The Ministry of Culture, Information, and Youth Policy of Kyrgyzstan reports.
The event was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Culture, the State Agency for Tourism Development, government agencies, youth organizations, the tourism industry, the expert community, and official delegations from SCO member states.
During the forum, participants discussed the development of tourism industry in SCO region, improving the quality of tourism services, and promoting the tourism potential of member countries. Particular attention was paid to the development of ecotourism, mountain tourism, and cultural tourism, youth initiatives, and the digitalization of the industry.
One of the key initiatives was the proposal to create a unified digital tourism platform for the SCO, which would integrate the calendar of events and data on tourist flows. Participants also emphasized the importance of simplifying visa procedures to expand tourism exchanges between the organization's member states.
Furthermore, the forum noted the high investment potential of Kyrgyzstan's tourism industry. Participants believed that further development of the sector will be facilitated by supporting ecotourism, academic exchanges, information tours, and the introduction of modern marketing tools.
The discussion was devoted to the role of youth in tourism development. Participants emphasized that young professionals actively propose innovative projects and new approaches to industry development, while educational programs and the activities of the SCO Youth Council strengthen international cooperation.
Following the forum, representatives of the SCO Secretariat confirmed their readiness to facilitate the implementation of promising projects and initiatives aimed at further developing tourism and youth cooperation within the organization.