Speaking at 5th International Meeting on the Silk Road in Samarkand, Rifai said already Silk Road countries account for 30% of international tourism arrivals and 20% of international tourism receipts.

The Silk Road is a network of routes, which for centuries served as a vital cultural and trade link between the East and the West. The routes connect China, Southern Asia and Africa with European ports, he said.

With its richly diverse cultural assets spanning 12,000 kilometres (7,500 miles) and 24 countries, the ancient trading route could become one of the most internationally acclaimed travel destinations, Rifai said.

At the end of the meeting, the participants will draw up a new strategy on development of the Silk Road as a global brand.