Bishkek, Feb. 4, 2026 /Kabar/. Regional integration of Central Asia could yield quick and visible results, particularly in the tourism sector, stated Erdenet Kasymov, Director of the Tourism Department of the Ministry of Economy and Commerce, at the B5+1 "CA – USA" business forum in Bishkek.
Kasymov stated that tourists from distant markets perceive Central Asia as a unified space – and this is an opportunity that is important to exploit jointly. At the Central Asian-USA (C5+1) summit held on November 6 in Washington, D.C., and at regional intergovernmental events among Central Asian countries, President Sadyr Zhaparov consistently highlighted tourism as a key focus, emphasizing its role as a powerful tool for bringing peoples together and advancing the idea of creating a unified regional tourism space.
He noted that the Kyrgyz Republic supports the concept of promoting Central Asia as a unified tourism destination in the US, 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 combining three to five countries, that are of greatest interest to international tour operators," explained the head of the tourism department.
Among specific measures, he noted the need to transition to joint tourism products, including routes combining mountain and adventure tourism in Kyrgyzstan with the historic cities of neighboring countries, as well as tours that highlight the region's shared nomadic heritage.
"Kyrgyzstan views the regional 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.
Speaking about service quality in the industry, Kasymov emphasized that tourists evaluate the entire route, and a decline in service in one area affects the perception of the region as a whole.
He also noted the importance of unifying basic quality standards, developing human resources and joint educational initiatives, and scaling up community-based tourism (CBT) practices.
The head of the department 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. The Kyrgyz Republic consistently supports the simplification and digitalization of visa and border procedures," Kasymov concluded.