Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — As part of the state visit of President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Mongolia, the Uzbek-Mongolian Tourism Forum titled "Uzbekistan — The Pearl of the Great Silk Road" was held in Ulaanbaatar on 23 June 2025. The event marked an important step in advancing bilateral cooperation in the tourism sector.

The forum brought together key officials and stakeholders from both countries, including Jahongir Abdusalamov, First Deputy Chairman of the Tourism Committee of Uzbekistan; Chinzbatt Undram, Minister of Culture, Sports, Tourism, and Youth Affairs of Mongolia; Damba Gantumur, President of the Mongolian Tourism Association; Tserenkhu Turbold, Commercial Director of Hunnu Air; as well as more than 150 representatives from the tourism industry and media outlets.

Comprehensive presentations highlighted Uzbekistan’s vast tourism potential. Special emphasis was placed on the ongoing reforms in the tourism sector, the creation of new infrastructure and facilities, and the development of ecotourism, pilgrimage, and gastronomic tourism.

Participants showed particular interest in Uzbekistan’s unique architectural and historical landmarks, including the cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, Shakhrisabz, and Tashkent. UNESCO World Heritage sites, traditional craft centers, and other cultural attractions showcased the richness and diversity of the nation's heritage.

The forum also featured B2B and G2B meetings between representatives of travel companies and government agencies from both countries. These discussions covered prospective areas of cooperation, led to preliminary agreements on bilateral partnerships, and mapped out steps to increase mutual tourist flows between Uzbekistan and Mongolia.

The event concluded with a vibrant cultural performance featuring traditional Uzbek dances, melodies, and songs reflecting the country’s regional diversity. A highlight of the evening was a national banquet offering a selection of Uzbek dishes, which captivated the forum’s guests and added a festive ambiance.

The forum served as a significant platform for strengthening tourism ties between Uzbekistan and Mongolia, fostering humanitarian connections, and laying the groundwork for future collaborative projects aimed at cultural exchange and deepened bilateral cooperation.