JAKARTA, April 29 ./Dunyo IA/. A large-scale presentation of Uzbekistan’s tourism potential took place in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

The event gathered key representatives from Indonesia’s leading travel companies, the Ministries of Tourism and Religious Affairs of Indonesia, as well as prominent local media outlets.

During the event, the airline Qanot Sharq announced the launch of a new direct flight route: Jakarta – Samarkand – Jeddah, which is set to commence operations this fall. Attendees were presented with a promotional video showcasing the rich history, modern development of Samarkand, and the unique "Umrah+" program, specially designed for Indonesian pilgrims.

A particular highlight of the event was the speech by the Minister of Religious Affairs of Indonesia, Nasaruddin Umar, who emphasized Uzbekistan’s profound significance in the Islamic world:

"Uzbekistan is a sacred land for all muslims. Samarkand is the main gateway leading to Mecca and Medina. Scholars from this land played a pivotal role in the spread of Islam to Indonesia", the Minister stated.

He recalled that the revered Islamic scholar Imam al-Bukhari, the compiler of one of the most respected hadith collections Al-Jami' as-Sahih, was born in the land of Uzbekistan. In accordance with the instructions of the President of Uzbekistan, a memorial complex is being constructed in the village of Hartang near Samarkand in honor of this distinguished thinker.

"This will be a landmark event not only for Uzbekistan but for the entire Islamic world", the Minister stressed.

He also noted that in 1956, Indonesia’s first President, Sukarno, visited the grave of Imam al-Bukhari, becoming the first world leader to pay respects at this sacred site.

Special attention was given to promoting the "Umrah+Samarkand" tourism program, which enables pilgrims to make a spiritual stop in the ancient city en route to Saudi Arabia.

Today, over 1.2 million Indonesians travel for Umrah annually via transit cities such as Istanbul, Cairo, and Doha. With its ancient shrines, cultural landmarks, and renowned Uzbek hospitality, Samarkand is well-positioned to become a significant new destination on this pilgrimage route.

"We are ready to fully support the promotion of the "Umrah+Samarkand" program and are confident it will resonate deeply with Indonesian believers", said Nasaruddin Umar, promising active advocacy of the initiative.

As a result of the event, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Qanot Sharq and the Association of the Indonesian Tour and Travel Agencies (ASITA). The two sides agreed to foster regular air connections and enhance the quality of tourism services for Indonesian visitors.

The presentation in Jakarta served as a vivid example of strengthening cultural and spiritual ties between Uzbekistan and Indonesia. These new initiatives are expected to create expanded opportunities for mutual visits, cultural exchange, and deepened friendship between the two nations.