TASHKENT (TCA) — On February 21-23, Uzbekistan will host the first International Forum on ziyorat-tourism (pilgrimage tourism). The organizers of the forum are the State Committee of Uzbekistan for Tourism Development, state administrations of Bukhara and Samarkand regions, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, State Committee on Religious Affairs with the assistance of diplomatic missions of Uzbekistan abroad, the Jahon information agency reported.
The purpose of the event is to expand international cooperation in development of ziyorat-tourism, attracting direct investments in this area, recognizing Uzbekistan as one of the largest centers of pilgrimage tourism in the world and introducing Halal standards.
The forum, initiated by the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, will be attended by local and foreign scientists, theologians, experts and specialists in the sphere of ziyorat-tourism.
On the first day of the event, it is planned to hold a press conference for mass media representatives and a sightseeing tour for guests and participants of the forum to Bukhara.
On the second day of the forum, the grand opening of the event will take place at the Youth Center in Bukhara. It is also planned to hold three panel sessions with participation of foreign experts on the issues of enhancing the potential of the country’s pilgrimage tourism and sign the Declaration on the Role of Cultural and Historical Centers of Uzbekistan in Development of Islamic Culture and Civilization.
Following the meetings, it is planned to sign investment agreements with foreign partners.
On the final day of the forum, guests will visit Samarkand.