ASHGABAT, August 6. /Dunyo IA/. Uzbekistan has officially joined the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

According to the “Orient” Information Agency of Turkmenistan, the accession of the Project Office under the Tourism Committee to this prestigious organization provides Uzbekistan with direct access to the global business tourism (MICE) market.

This event will enable Uzbekistan to attract large-scale international summits, exhibitions and corporate forums. According to economists, unlike ordinary travellers, participants of business events spend on average three to four times more, stimulating the development of hotels, transport, catering and service sectors.

“Orient” Information Agency notes that ICCA membership provides the country with:

- access to databases: the country will be able to directly compete for the opportunity to host the world’s largest congresses;

- growth of economic revenues: attracting high-spending foreign visitors and investors;

- global standards: introduction of international best practices and training of local specialists in organizing large-scale events;

- strengthening the brand: enhancing the recognition of Uzbekistan as a safe and modern business hub in Central Asia.

Thanks to its developed infrastructure - new congress centers, hotels and expanded air connectivity - Uzbekistan is creating a strong foundation to become the leading center of business activity in the region, Agency concludes.