BERLIN, July 3. /Dunyo IA/. The Embassy of Uzbekistan, in cooperation with the German Travel Association (DRV), hosted the "Sommerfest-2025" festival to promote Uzbekistan’s tourism potential and further expand international cooperation with representatives of the industry, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

The event was attended by Anja Karliczek, Chairwoman of the Tourism Committee of the German Bundestag, members of parliament, representatives of federal ministries and agencies, heads and representatives of diplomatic missions in Berlin, major European tourism companies and agencies, leading airlines, as well as the media.

During the official opening ceremony, Ambassador Dilshod Akhatov highlighted Uzbekistan’s tourism potential, the large-scale reforms being implemented in the sector, newly developed tourist destinations, modern infrastructure, as well as the incentives and benefits created for investors interested in the industry.

It was emphasized that, as a result of these reforms, Uzbekistan is becoming one of the most attractive tourist destinations. In particular, 5.2 million foreign tourists visited Uzbekistan in 2022, while in 2024 this number exceeded 10 million.

With these figures, Uzbekistan has entered the list of 28 countries in the world receiving more than ten million foreign visitors annually. It was also noted that the number of tourists from European countries has grown, with approximately 38,000 tourists from Germany visiting Uzbekistan last year.

Uzbekistan’s progress has also been recognized at the international level. The country ranked first in the Safety Perception Index 2023, which includes 121 countries, and was awarded the title of "Best Tourist Destination of 2024" by the British travel publisher Lonely Planet. Additionally, Uzbekistan received the Wanderlust Reader Travel Award for "Most Desirable Emerging Destination of 2024" and several other accolades. The upcoming 43rd session of the UNESCO General Assembly, set to take place this autumn in Samarkand—marking the first time in 40 years that the session is held outside of Paris—was cited as further evidence of the country’s growing international recognition.

In conclusion, the head of the diplomatic mission spoke about the appointment of Tourism Ambassadors of Uzbekistan abroad and ceremonially presented special certificates from Uzbekistan’s Tourism Committee to two newly appointed Tourism Ambassadors from Germany.

In her remarks, Anja Karliczek, Chairwoman of the Tourism Committee of the German Bundestag, underlined that ancient and captivating Uzbekistan is confidently moving toward the future by expanding its tourism opportunities and viewing tourism as a pillar of economic growth. She expressed the committee’s readiness to support Uzbekistan in this endeavor and contribute to promoting its image further.

Norbert Fiebig, President of the German Travel Association (DRV), expressed his satisfaction with the ongoing cooperation and the joint efforts to further increase the flow of tourists from Germany.

The festival featured live performances of national songs and melodies by renowned Uzbek artists. A showcase of traditional Uzbek handicrafts was organized, along with a festive table offering national dishes. Promotional videos highlighting the country's tourist attractions were displayed on screens, accompanied by posters announcing the upcoming 43rd session of the UNESCO General Assembly in Samarkand, and various tourism-related printed materials, offering guests a comprehensive insight into Uzbekistan’s tourism potential.

Dunyo IA correspondent spoke with participants during the event:

Anja Karliczek, Chairwoman of the Tourism Committee of the German Bundestag:

- Tourism not only broadens people’s knowledge and horizons, it also strengthens peace and friendship between nations. Therefore, I believe it is important to preserve the tourism appeal of my own country, while I am also very pleased that Uzbekistan is undertaking major reforms to become a top tourist destination globally. Your country boasts a unique cultural heritage. Its location on the ancient Silk Road, cultural diversity, and especially its dynamic development today make it a favorite destination for Germans interested in world culture.

Norbert Fiebig, President of the German Travel Association (DRV):

- In 2022, we visited Uzbekistan with a delegation of top professionals from our industry, and the following year gave around 80 travel agents and tour operators the opportunity to explore Uzbekistan more closely. As a result, the number of tourists doubled.

I believe Uzbekistan will become one of the most important destinations for tourists interested in global cultures and traditions. We remain committed to promoting Uzbekistan as an attractive destination for German travelers. There is significant untapped potential between our two countries. Uzbekistan has created all the necessary conditions for developing cooperation, and we, as the German Travel Association and tourism industry, fully support this partnership and were pleased to co-organize this event with the Embassy. Such initiatives should continue. New and exciting travel destinations are essential for Germany’s tourism market.

Gerhard Birkl, head of "Uzbekistan-online" and "Uzbekistan-Gallerie":

- I greatly appreciate Uzbekistan’s culture and art. That is why, 15 years ago, I launched dedicated websites about Uzbekistan, and to this day, I continue to present the country’s ancient cities, rich cultural heritage, and traditions. Being appointed a Tourism Ambassador for Uzbekistan is recognition of my many years of work, as well as a major responsibility for further promoting the country’s tourism potential. In Europe, tourism is viewed not only as an economic factor, but also as a cultural bridge between peoples and nations. I will do my utmost to further promote Uzbekistan in Germany and strengthen the friendly and cultural ties between our countries.