CHELYABINSK, April 13. /Dunyo IA/. Diplomats from the Consulate General of Uzbekistan in Yekaterinburg paid a working visit to Chelyabinsk Region, reports Dunyo IA correspondent.

During the trip, a meeting was held with Alena Chernysheva, Lead Export Manager at “UK Sigma-Holding” LLC. The negotiations focused on the potential for organizing the supply and bottling of the company's sunflower oil within Uzbekistan.

Diplomats also held a meeting with Alexandra Mitenkova, Deputy Head of the Main Department for Tourism Development Coordination of the Chelyabinsk Region, Oleg Ekimov, Chairman of the Regional Federation of Trade Unions, and representatives from six leading local travel companies.

During the meeting, participants were briefed on Uzbekistan’s tourism reforms, the favourable conditions created for foreign visitors, and the country’s key travel destinations. Special emphasis was placed on traveller safety, which is maintained at a high level.

Alexandra Mitenkova noted the steady growth of interest among Chelyabinsk Region residents in Uzbekistan, highlighting its potential as both a travel destination and a hub for business missions.

At the same time, both parties emphasized that the lack of direct flights between the Chelyabinsk Region and Uzbek cities remains a key factor hindering the development of tourism exchange. The Russian side also expressed interest in attracting tourists from Uzbekistan to the region's natural landmarks.

To promote Uzbekistan's tourism potential, it was proposed to organize press tours for representatives of Chelyabinsk travel companies.

Additionally, an initiative was put forward to hold a “roadshow” in Chelyabinsk featuring members of Uzbekistan's tourism industry. The Russian side supported this proposal and expressed readiness to assist in organizing the event and attracting relevant companies.

Following the visit, both parties confirmed their mutual interest in further developing tourism cooperation and expanding bilateral ties.