On priority measures for development of tourism sphere for 2018-2019 (RP-3217-son)

16.08.2017

Resolution

of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan

In order to ensure the maximum favorable treatment with creation of a comfortable economic, administrative and legal environment for an accelerated development of the domestic tourism industry, including priority involvement of the private sector, further improving its competitiveness and quality of services, expanding economic potential of the regions and their revenue base, creation of new jobs, as well as active and integrated promotion of the national tourist product in the world markets for short-term perspective:

1. To approve the Program of priority measures for development of tourism for 2018-2019 (further — the Program of priority measures) accordance to the Appendix № 1.

The sources of financing for implementation of the measures provided for in the present Resolution and included in the Program of priority measures are the own funds of business entities - project initiators, implementing ministries and agencies, attracted loans of commercial banks, foreign investment, loans and grants from the international financial institutions and donor countries, charity donations, as well as other sources not prohibited by law.

4. The Council of Ministers of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, the khokimiyats of the regions and the city of Tashkent, together with the ministries and departments responsible for implementing the planned measures, ensure timely, high-quality and full implementation of the planned measures, quarterly submit to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports information on the progress of the implementation of the Program of Priority Measures.

5. To approve proposals of the State Committee for Development of Tourism of the Republic of Uzbekistan (Abdukhakimov) on organization of elaboration and preparation for signing in 2018-2019 of international agreements on expanding cooperation in the field of tourism with foreign countries in accordance with the Appendix № 3.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan (Kamilov) shall render practical assistance to the State Committee for Development of Tourism of the Republic of Uzbekistan (Abdukhakimov) in preparation and organization of signing international treaties on expanding cooperation in the field of tourism with foreign partners.

6. To establish the Working Group on preparation of proposals for the phased simplification of visa and registration procedures for foreign tourists, including those making pilgrimage tours (hereinafter — the Working group), in accordance with the Appendix № 4.

The Working Group:

within one month, on the basis of in-depth study shall make proposals on the list of countries for whose citizens are proposed to simplify the visa regime from January 1, 2018, as well as countries for whose citizens special programs of pilgrimage tourism will be offered;

on a regular basis, shall make proposals on simplifying the visa regime for citizens of foreign countries based on the dynamics of development of bilateral relations with them, the conjuncture of the world tourism market and the current situation in the sphere of international and regional security.

7. The State Committee for Development of Tourism of the Republic of Uzbekistan (Abdukhakimov) jointly with National Airline Company «O`zbekiston havo yo`llari» (Tyan) shall intensify activities to attract tourists from Malaysia, Indonesia and other countries in the direction of pilgrimage tourism to the holy places in the Republic of Uzbekistan with a conduct of necessary advertising campaigns and the solution of logistics issues, including the organization of charter flights.

8. To agree with the proposal of the State Committee for Development of Tourism of the Republic of Uzbekistan (Abdukhakimov), the Ministry of Economy of the Republic of Uzbekistan (Saidova) and a number of commercial banks on the phased creation of tourism zones similar to the cities of Bukhara and Samarkand in the cities of Urgench, Tashkent and the Fergana region, as well as mountain clusters in the Bostanlyk District of the Tashkent region.

The Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan within three months shall adopt a governmental decision providing for organizational and technical issues for establishment of tourist zones and mountain clusters in 2018 — 2022 identifying responsible commercial banks that will provide co-financing and lending to projects, and establishing strict control over the timely attraction of foreign investors, over the allocation of land plots by the state authorities on the ground, over the beginning and the quality completion of construction.

9. The State Committee for Development of Tourism of the Republic of Uzbekistan (Abdukhakimov) jointly with the State Committee for Investments of the Republic of Uzbekistan (Akhmedkhodjaev) shall take measures to attract foreign investments to tourist zones and mountain tourist clusters created, as well as leading hotel brands to the republic for the construction of new hotels or transfer them for the management of domestic hotel facilities.

10. To recommend commercial banks of the Republic of Uzbekistan:

to introduce in practice the allocation of long-term credits (up to 15 years) to business entities for the construction of new and modernization of existing hotels and other objects of tourist infrastructure, providing for flexible conditions for repayment of the loan and interests, taking into account the capital intensity and seasonal congestion of hotels;

to take necessary measures to dramatically increase the number of ATMs and terminals installed in airports, railway stations, hotels and other tourist facilities working with the international payment systems, as well as create additional conveniences for business entities when accepting payments in foreign currency, including the introduction of electronic contactless payments;

to ensure the maximum acceptable fees (commissions) for services provided to business entities for the transfer of funds in foreign currency, for the lease of terminals, the collection of cash in freely convertible currency and other services related to operations in foreign currency.

12. The State Committee for Development of Tourism of the Republic of Uzbekistan jointly with the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Uzbekistan and other concerned ministries and departments shall submit proposals on amendments and additions to the legislation arising from the present Resolution within two months.

13. Control over the implementation of the present Resolution shall be entrusted to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan A.N. Aripov and the Chairman of the State Committee for Development of Tourism of the Republic of Uzbekistan A.A. Abdukhakimov.

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan SH. MIRZIYOYEV

Tashkent city,

August 16, 2017

№ RP-3217

APPENDIX № 1 to the Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan of August 16, 2017 № RP-3217

PROGRAM

of priority measures for development of tourism for 2018-2019

№ Name of activity Deadlines of implementation Responsible executors in charge Estimated cost (mln. soums) Source of financing Type of submitted document, mechanism of implementation, expected result I. Improvement of normative legal regulation in the tourism sphere 1. Development and submission to the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan of a draft law of the Republic of Uzbekistan «On Tourism» in a new edition November, 2017 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), Ministry of Economy (Saidova), Ministry of Finance (Khodjayev), Ministry of Culture (Sayfullayev), Ministry of Justice (Davletov), concerned ministries and departments — — Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan The new version of the law provides for: further phased improvement of the organizational and legal foundations of the tourism industry of the Republic of Uzbekistan; regulation of rights and obligations of the subjects of tourist activity; definition of the powers of authorized state bodies; legal regulation of modern types of tourist services and promotion of tourist products 2. Development and submission in the established order of the draft resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers, providing for creation and functioning of large tourist zones (clusters) in the country, particularly in mountain terrain May, 2018 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), Ministry of Culture (Sayfullayev), State Committee for Ecology (Kuchkarov), Ministry of Economy (Saidova), Ministry of Finance (Khodjayev), Ministry of Justice (Davletov), other ministries and departments — — Resolution of the Cabinet Ministers This document is aimed at regulating the rules for creation and operation of large tourist zones (clusters). Adoption of the resolution will promote diversification and creation of new types of tourist product, as well as increase the attractiveness of a tourist destination in Uzbekistan 3. Working out and submitting proposals for decreasing a lower threshold from 10 to 5 persons for registration of the group tourist visa issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs November, 2017 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kamilov), concerned ministries and departments — — Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan This document is aimed at solving problems caused by a requirement of minimum number of tourists (10 persons) for the registration of the group tourist visa. According to tour operators in Uzbekistan, this requirement is an obstacle to increasing the tourist flow, because foreign tourists indicate that gathering of 10 people for the formation of a group causes certain difficulties, since in many cases groups are formed from the number of relatives or close acquaintances of about 5 people. Reduction the lower threshold for group tourist visas will help to increase the influx of foreign tourists 4. Elaboration in accordance with the established procedure of proposals on introducing amendments to the legislation providing for a procedure for provision by the tour operators of the list of tourists in electronic form via the Internet with the indication of their passport data, traffic route schemes, stay places (overnight stays) in the course of trips: accompanied by a guide (escort) and/or an instructor-conductor within the framework of a tour organized by a tourist operator outside the settlements, if a term of such tour or part thereof does not exceed 10 days; of foreign citizens by private car, motorcycle, bicycle, on foot or in a group by bus with the purchase of a car tour from a tour operator March, 2018 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), Мinistry of Internal Affairs (Аzizov), Ministry of Justice (Davletov), concerned ministries and departments — — Submission of proposals These proposals are in line with Decree of the President № DP-4861 of December 2, 2016 «On Measures to Ensure Accelerated Development of Tourism Industry of the Republic of Uzbekistan», where accelerated development of ecological and active tourism is indicated as one of the tasks of the state policy in the tourism sphere. Implementation of the proposals provides for simplification of registration procedures and their implementation in electronic form, which will create convenience for foreign tourists and contribute to the increasing a tourist flow and the development of ecological and active types of tourism. II. Development of international cooperation, ensuring availability of trips to Uzbekistan 5. Development with neighboring countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan and Tajikistan) of combined tourist routes, including along the route of the Great Silk Road 2018-2019 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kamilov), Ministry of Culture (Sayfullayev), Committee for Protection of the State Border of the National Security Service (Eminjanov), khokimiyats of the border regions — — Intergovernmental agreements These agreements are aimed at increasing the mutual tourist flow, attracting tourists from third countries as a part of organization of combined tours in Central Asia, as well as promoting the brand «Welcome to Uzbekistan» as the center of the Great Silk Road. To this end, within the framework of activities of the Working Group on preparation of proposals for the phased simplification of visa and registration procedures for foreign tourists, including those making pilgrimage tours, the issues of expedited visa registration and customs procedures will be solved for tourists arriving from neighboring countries and far abroad 6. Study and development of proposals on accession (signing, ratification) to international conventions in the sphere of tourism, including: Convention on Customs Facilities for Tourists (1954); Convention on the Contract for Travel (1970); Manila Declaration on Tourism (1980); Charter of Tourism and the Tourism Code (1985); Seoul Declaration on Peace and Tourism (2001); Osaka Millennium Declaration (2001); Global Tourism Code WTO (1999) and other documents 2018-2019 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kamilov), Ministry of Economy (Saidova), Ministry of Finance (Khodjayev), Ministry of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Justice (Davletov), State Customs Committee (Tokhiriy), State Tax Committee (Parpiyev), «Uzstandart» Agency (Karimov), concerned ministries and departments — — Submission of proposals The implementation of proposals on Uzbekistanʼs accession to universal international conventions and agreements regulating tourism will contribute to: introduction of international norms and standards in the field of tourism into the national legislation; positive perception of the country by potential tourists when deciding to visit Uzbekistan; dissemination of information on the country's tourism potential in the international arena; further strengthening of ties with major tour operators, brand hotel chains; attraction of foreign investment in the tourism sphere 7. Elaboration with the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) of the issue of establishing the Regional Commission for Central Asia during 2018 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kamilov) — — Submission of proposals The proposal to establish a Regional Commission for Central Asia at the UNWTO has been put forward taking into account the functioning of the UNWTO Silk Road office in Samarkand since 2004. Creation of this structure will give a qualitatively new dynamics to the regional cooperation in the field of tourism under the leadership of Uzbekistan and raise its international prestige and the status as one of the unique centers of world tourism. 8. Adoption with involvement of relevant ministries and agencies of the complex measures aimed at using the unique geographical location of the country to increase a number of transit tourists traveling with business missions in order to optimize development of trade and economic relations between Europe and the Asia-Pacific region June, 2018 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), State Inspection of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Safety Oversight (Uljayev), National Airline Company «O'zbekiston havo yo'llari» (Тyan), Committee for Protection of the State Border of the National Security Service (Eminjanov), concerned ministries and departments — — Joint action plan of performers This document is aimed at expanding the geography of flights, as well as promoting Uzbekistan as a transit air center, which will expand opportunities to attract tourists and financial revenues from them. 9. Strengthening cooperation with donor organizations to implement technical assistance projects in the field of tourism development, including UNDP, KOICA (Republic of Korea), JICA (Japan), TIKA (Turkish Republic), French Development Agency, GIZ (Federal Republic of Germany), World Bank and others 2018-2019 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kamilov), Ministry of Finance (Khodjayev), State Committee for Investment (Akhmedhujayev), Ministry of Economy (Saidova), Ministry of Higher and Secondary Specialized Education (Маjidov), Ministry of Culture (Sayfullayev) — — Attracting technical assistance grants In the given context, it is planned the implementation of technical assistance projects in the field of tourism, restoration and conservation of historical sites, as well as the implementation of social projects (e.g., surveys of foreign tourists, etc.) and others. 10. Taking measures for effective use of resources of the National Airline Company «O'zbekiston havo yo'llari», including: relief of the Tashkent International Airport named after Islam Karimov by using existing international airports in the regions of the country; creation of flexible conditions for financing the increase in aviation fleet of the airline in the coming years, including through the purchase of short- and long-haul aircrafts; launching new routes to attract foreign tourists (for example, to Jakarta and Barcelona) and working out the issue of optimizing the cost of tickets for the international flights from countries that have priority importance and the domestic flights; further development of air transportation within the country to attract tourists, including the development of issues of air transportation between the cities of the Ferghana Valley and the cities of Urgench, Bukhara and Samarkand via Tashkent by connecting flights 2017 — 2019 National Airline Company «O'zbekiston havo yo'llari» (Тyan), State Inspection of the Republic of Uzbekistan on Safety Oversight (Uljayev), Ministry of Economy (Saidova), Ministry of Finance (Khodjayev), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), Fund for Reconstruction and Development of Uzbekistan (Vafayev) According to design estimates Funds of performers, credits Decision of the performers Opening of the new routes will help to attract foreign and local tourists, as well as optimize the cost of air tickets for international and domestic flights 11. Introduction of a full-fledged system of online booking and purchase of air and railway tickets for domestic and international flights, as well as the development of mobile applications for various platforms December, 2018 National Airline Company «O'zbekiston havo yo'llari» (Тyan), JSC «O'zbekiston temir yo'llari» (Shukurov), Joint Venture LLC «Unified All-Republican Processing Center», Association of Banks of Uzbekistan (Аbdullayev), Central Bank (Nurmuratov), Ministry of Information Technologies and Communications (Shermatov) According to the design estimates Performers funds Decision of the performers Booking of air and railway tickets in real time will allow: to get access to information about the cost of tickets and instantly pay for them through the website; to ensure availability of tickets in a round-the-clock format; to increase efficiency in obtaining information about availability of tickets while planning tours; to create conditions for rapid orientation and selection of the optimal voyage, class, route and departure time 12. Further development of a taxi service, introduction of electronic applications to call a taxi with specific rates and rules understandable to tourists, as well as ensuring availability of only official taxis at airports and train stations January, 2018 Khokimiyat of the Таshkent City (Usmanov), Uzbek Agency for Automobile and River Transport (Ismailov), Ministry of Internal Affairs (Аzizov) — — Departmental document This document should provide for the development of a taxi calling service, the introduction of electronic applications to call a taxi with specific rates and tourist-friendly rules, including in English, the constant availability of official taxi at airports and train stations III. Involvement of unused resources, diversification of tourist products, formation of favorable conditions for development of tourism industry 13. Adoption of the comprehensive program for further development of medical tourism in the Republic of Uzbekistan July, 2018 Ministry of Health (Shadmanov), Council of Federation of Trade Unions (Rafikov), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), Ministry of Economy (Saidova), Ministry of Finance (Khodjayev), Ministry of Justice (Davletov) — — Complex measures Adoption of the normative act in the area will accelerate the organization of medical tourism, in particular on the basis of mineral and curative sources and also include them in the active tourist turnover 14. Adoption of a comprehensive program for development of agro- and rural tourism, which includes: involvement in the tourist turnover (business) of farmer and dekhkan farms, residents of rural areas (mainly from remote, mountainous areas); construction of residential complexes for standard projects — «tourist mahalla» (in the traditional architecture) for dekhans and farmers who have intention and ability to receive tourists in the framework of rural and ethnographic tours (traditional way of life, crafts, cooking, etc.); creation of model associations in the form of agro-ethno-villages integrated into a single structure (rural tourist cluster) on the territory of farms by expanding and diversifying their activities and producing tasting products (wine products, dried fruits and sweets) September, 2018 Ministry of Agriculture (Yusupov), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), Ministry of Economy (Saidova), Ministry of Finance (Khodjayev), Ministry of Justice (Davletov), Farmers Council of Uzbekistan (Yusupov), Fund «Mahalla» (Javlonov), concerned ministries and departments, public associations — — Complex measures These measures will contribute to: diversification of the tourist product of Uzbekistan to meet a growing demand for a variety of tourist services in rural areas; ensuring employment of the population and development of small business in rural areas; attraction and serving of domestic and foreign tourists in the framework of agrotourism and rural tourism programs (tours) (including wine-growing, wine-making and gastronomic tourism) 15. Realization of the program «Know Your Favorite Land», which includes a list of activities aimed at popularizing and encouraging domestic tourism among citizens of Uzbekistan of all ages, especially during the low tourist season Preparation of proposals for introducing amendments to the Tax Code that provide for exemption from the tax on personal income of the cost of tourist vouchers within the country paid by legal entities — employers, while simultaneously classifying these expenses as deductible expenses of a legal entity March, 2018 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), Youth Union of Uzbekistan (Kuranbayev), Council of Federation of Trade Unions (Rafikov), Ministry of Higher and Secondary Specialized Education (Маjidov), Мinistry of Public Education (Inoyatov), Womenʼs Committee of Uzbekistan (Narbayeva), Funds «Nuroniy» (Jalilov) and «Mahalla» (Javlonov) State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), Ministry of Internal Affairs (Аzizov), Ministry of Justice (Davletov), concerned ministries and departments — — Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers This document is aimed at promoting the development of domestic tourism by the means of: attraction of workers of enterprises and institutions through trade union organizations with a provision of preferential vouchers; organization of excursions for young people, pupils of schools, students of secondary specialized and higher educational institutions; study the issue of increasing a number of days off at the holidays; arrangement of excursions for elderly citizens from mahalla and rural gatherings of citizens and the Fund «Nuroniy». Implementation of the program is based on 50% discounts for services by hotel companies and transport organizations provided for excursion participants during a low tourist season. Submission of proposals These proposals are aimed at further development of domestic tourism, including by providing working people and their families with an additional opportunity to exercise their right to rest. It is expected that employers will be able to take into account in the composition of labor costs compensation of services for organizing tourism and recreation for employees and members of their families within the country. Introduction of this mechanism will affect the revenues to budgets of various levels of profit tax of organizations involved in formation and sale of tourist products (accommodation facilities, transport, sightseeing services, food facilities, etc.) 16. Implementation of measures aimed at developing recreational tourism around existing lakes and natural places by the means of: inventory of territories and objects attractive from the point of view of tourism development; development and approval of master plans, including, in particular, development and creation of objects of tourist infrastructure; attraction of domestic and foreign investment to organization of tourist business in the specified territories July, 2018 Council of Ministers of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, khokimiyats of regions, Ministry of Construction (Тukhtayev), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), Ministry of Agriculture (Yusupov), concerned ministries and departments — — Decision of the performers Implementation of these measures will allow to determine the amount of additional tourist resources, their subsequent attraction to the tourist turnover with creation of recreation zones and places for mass recreation of tourists 17. Implementation of measures aimed at developing of ecotourism: inventory of territories and sites that are attractive from the point of view of ecotourism development; development and approval of master plans, including, in particular, creation and development of objects of ecotourism infrastructure; attraction of domestic and foreign investment to the organization of ecotourism business on the lands of the State Forest Fund State Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Forestry (Bakirov), Ministry of Agriculture (Yusupov), State Committee for Investment (Аkhmedkhujayev), State Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Land Resources, Geodesy, Cartography and State Cadastre (Аbdullayev), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Ikramov) — Funds of performers Complex measures Implementation of these measures will make it possible to determine additional tourist resources and attract them to the tourist turnover with creation of recreation areas 18. Submission of proposals on a revision of the maximum number of staff and the structure of the State Committee for Development of Tourism for effective organization of its activities and taking into account the new tasks assigned to it, as well as the creation in the regions of territorial units of the State Committee for Development of Tourism November, 2017 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), Ministry of Finance (Khodjayev) — — Submission of proposals The structure and the maximum number of employees of the State Committee for Development of Tourism require further optimization. The adoption of a decision expects: the increase in a number of employees of the central apparatus of the State Committee for Development of Tourism and the improvement of a structure of the Committee, based on the perspective areas of tourism; the opening in the regions of the territorial units of the State Committee for Development of Tourism (in 5 regions there are territorial units) 19. Based on foreign experience, development and introduction of a special tourist (plastic) card for foreign tourists «Uzbekistan Pass», which operates throughout the country giving the opportunity to purchase goods and services at a discount, including in the online sales format, as well as: elaboration of the issue of distribution of tourist (plastic) cards «Uzbekistan Pass» on a free basis while obtaining an entry visa to Uzbekistan; introduction of a mechanism of inclusion of tourist (plastic) cards «Uzbekistan Pass» in the tourist package of services of tour operators; organization of sales places of tourist (plastic) cards «Uzbekistan Pass» in airports and hotels; possibility of receiving discounts when visiting cultural sites. January, 2018 Association of Private Tourist Organizations (Kasimov), initiator of the project — «ТN Sarmoya» company, Ministry of Culture (Sayfullayev), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Кamilov) 200,0 Funds of the project initiator Decision of the performers World experience in attracting tourists requires a presence of incentive programs providing tourists with special offers and discounts on shopping programs, food, visits to tourist sites, parks and exhibitions. The introduction of similar incentive programs in Uzbekistan will contribute to: improving the tourist attractiveness of the country, as saving money is one of the most important factors in the journey; increase in additional income in foreign currency; increase the level of competitiveness and improve the image of the country in the tourist market 20. Introduction of a system of voluntary certification of museums, galleries, catering facilities and other objects of tourist display and tourist infrastructure according to the system «tourist-friendly», confirming the compliance of this institution with sanitary norms and other requirements for a quality and range of products, as well as the availability of an uninterrupted system of hot water supply, backup power supply systems, video surveillance systems and other security measures, staff fluent in foreign languages, various payment systems and others April, 2018 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), Ministry of Culture (Sayfullayev), «Uzstandart» Agency (Karimov), Association of Chiefs of Uzbekistan, Council of Ministers of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, khokimiyats of regions and the Tashkent City, concerned ministries and departments, business entities According to the design estimates Performers funds Departmental act This act of voluntary certification will allow to determine the objects of tourist display and tourist infrastructure (museums, restaurants, cafes, bars, vehicles), which meet safety and sanitary requirements and they will be marked with an appropriate sign. This measure will help to improve the level of services provided to tourists and the growth in a number of positive reviews. 21. Development of the mobile applications «alarm button», providing foreign tourists with detailed information about the procedure in emergency situations, as well as telephone numbers of rescue services, law enforcement, ambulance and hotline for tourists April, 2018 Ministry of Information Technologies and Communications (Shermatov), Ministry of Emergency Situations (Jurayev), Ministry of Health (Shadmanov), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov) According to the design estimates Funds of the performers, grant funds Submission of proposals This measure will allow foreign tourists to be informed in advance about a procedure during emergency situations, as well as telephone numbers of rescue services, law enforcement, ambulance services and hotline for tourists, which will ensure their safety in emergency cases. IV. Implementation of priority measures for development of tourism in the context of regions General issues 22. Approval of the territorial programs for a promotion and development of tourism in the relevant territories with definition of specific measures aimed at increasing tourist potential and attractiveness of the regions Once in two years Council of Ministers of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, khokimiyats of regions and the Tashkent City, State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), concerned ministries and departments According to the design estimates Funds of local budgets, initiators, donor organizations, commercial bank loans Territorial programs Implementation of the territorial programs on development of tourism will create necessary conditions for attracting and stay of tourists, introduce new types of tourist services, as well as ensure a growth of the role and importance of tourism in the gross regional product through: development of tourist and related infrastructure (public catering facilities, logistics structures, entertainment industry, cultural and sports institutions, tourist display facilities), taking into account the parameters of tourism demand by types of tourism and the nature of tourist offers; creation of street infrastructure in large cities, tourist and recreational centers, taking into account modern international standards (access roads, signs and signboards, sidewalks, small architectural forms, sanitary and hygiene units, amenities for people with disabilities); introduction of a thought-out system for organizing the thematic leisure of foreign tourists during their free of sightseeing time, including the evening and night time; development of a comfortable tourist information environment and creation of tourist information centers; creation of conditions for accelerated allocation of land plots for tourist infrastructure facilities (hotels, restaurants, public catering facilities, campgrounds, amusement parks, etc.) by state authorities on the ground with permits for connection to the engineering and communication infrastructure 23. Attraction of foreign investment in the tourist sphere, including world-known brands of hotel chains (medium price level), restaurants, cafes and fast food outlets that have modern marketing mechanisms, based on franchising agreements, taking into account the creation of favorable conditions for repatriating profit 2018-2019 State Committee for Investment (Аkhmedkhujayev), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), Central Bank (Nurmuratov), Ministry of Finance (Khodjayev), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kamilov), business entities According to the design estimates Funds of initiators, investors Joint actions plan of performers This plan will include attraction of world brands of hotel chains (medium-level in the regions), restaurants, cafes and fast food outlets based on franchising contracts with mandatory currency conversion for payment of royalties Republic of Karakalpakstan 24. Creation of objects of tourist infrastructure with organization of new routes, a network of stationary and seasonal means for locating tourists by maximally involving the local population of settlements located in the nearby territories of the Nizhne-Amudarya Biosphere Reserve June, 2018 State Committee for Forestry (Bakirov), Council of Ministers of the Republic of Karakalpakstan (Sariyev), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov) 200,0 Funds of the performers Realization of complex measures Complex measures will be aimed at the use of natural protected areas for the development of ecological tourism, as well as ensuring the diversity of organized tours in the region and increasing the number of tourists 25. Realization of complex measures to increase the tourist potential of the Muynak District, providing for the formation of infrastructure and tourist products, the creation of amenities for tourists, as well as various cultural and entertainment events August, 2018 Council of Ministers of the Republic of Karakalpakstan (Sariyev), khokimiyat of the Muynak District (Danyarov), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), State Committee for Ecology (Kuchkarov), concerned ministries and departments 200,0 Funds of the performers Realization of complex measures Within the framework of the measures being developed, the following are planned: formation of a complex of tourist display based on the preservation of ecology and biological diversity, taking into account the consequences of the Aral Sea disaster; organization of excursions to get acquainted with local traditions and the nature of the Aral Sea with an increase in the number of days of tourists' stay in the country Andijan region 26. Development of infrastructure and objects of tourist display, construction of recreation areas in the Khanabad City with subsequent promotion of the potential for stimulating domestic tourism September, 2018 Khokimiyat of the Andijan Region (Аbdurakhmanov) and the Khanabad City (Маmadaliyev), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), business entities According to the design estimates Means of the performers, initiators of projects Realization of complex measures The measures involve a use of the recreational potential of the Khanabad City for local and foreign tourists, as well as creation of the conditions for recreation of the local population Bukhara region 27. Creation of the tourist zone «Kadimiy Bukhoro» with construction on its territory of modern low-rise (up to three floors) hotels, entertainment centers, an amphitheater for 500 seats, restaurants, cafes, bowling centers, karaoke bars and other tourist facilities 2018-2019 National Bank of Foreign Economic Activities (Kholmuradov), khokimiyat of the Bukhara Region (Barnoyev), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), State Committee for Investment (Аkhmedkhujayev), «Bukhara Invest» LLC According to the design estimates Funds and credits of the commercial bank, investorsʼ funds and charity funds of donor organizations Realization of complex measures The measures are aimed at creating a tourist display facility that provides year-round and round-the-clock leisure and cultural pastime for tourists in the historic city, as well as an increase in the number of days in the city 28. Construction in the historical part of Bukhara (on the territory of the Shahriston market) of a quarter of artisans and a covered market consisting of two-storeyed houses with traditional handicraft workshops, stores and shops selling souvenirs, gold embroideries, books, fruits, vegetables and sweets December 2018 «Аsaka» Joint-Stock Bank (Мulladjonov), khokimiyat of the Bukhara Region (Barnoyev), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), investment companies, business entities According to the design estimates Funds and credits of the commercial bank, funds of business entities and investment companies Realization of complex measures The measures envisage the creation of a tourist display site that provides tourists with a rich history of handicrafts of the city and their participation in the process of manufacturing and conducting master classes, as well as increasing sales of handicraft products 29. Taking measures to sell «Bukhara Palace» Hotel in the Bukhara City ​​ to investors September, 2018 State Committee on Privatization, Demonopolization and Development of Competition (Gulyamov), State Committee for Investments (Аkhmedkhujayev), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov) 81 000,0* (preliminary input cost in operation) Funds of foreign investor Realization of complex measures The measures are aimed at increasing the number of places in hotels in the city for more than 400 places and providing hotel services at a high level 30. Taking measures to sell the «Zarafshon» Hotel in the Bukhara City and putting it into operation with a resolution of all property issues among the founders October, 2018 State Committee on Privatization, Demonopolization and Development of Competition (Gulyamov), khokimiyat of the Bukhara Region (Barnoyev), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), business entities, commercial banks 6 100,0* Funds of business entities, commercial banks loans Realization of complex measures The measures assume an increase in the number of places in hotels in the Bukhara City to more than 200 places and the provision of hotel services at a high level 31. Taking measures to sell the «Varakhsha» Hotel in the Bukhara City and putting it into operation September, 2018 State Committee on Privatization, Demonopolization and Development of Competition (Gulyamov), khokimiyat of Bukhara Region (Barnoyev), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), business entities, commercial banks 4 100,0* Funds of business entities, commercial banks loans Realization of complex measures The measures assume an increase in the number of places in hotels in the Bukhara City to more than 200 places and the provision of hotel services at a high level Jizzakh region 32. Construction of the five new modern recreation areas on the shores of the Aydar-Arnasay lake system in the Forish and the Arnasay Districts with subsequent promotion of their tourist potential August, 2018 Khokimiyats of the Jizzak Region (Uzakov), Farish (Маkhatov) and the Arnasay District (Saliyev), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), business enterprises 750,0 Funds of the performers, the initiators of projects Realization of complex measures The measures are aimed at meeting the needs of a local population and other regions in the beach recreation, as well as the development of infrastructure for beach recreation 33. Promotion of a tourist potential of the Zaamin District and attraction of additional tourist flows, providing for an increase in the duration of the summer tourist season constantly 2017 — 2019 Khokimiyats of the Jizzakh Region (Uzakov), the Zaamin District (Umrzakov), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), business entities According to the design estimates Funds of the performers Realization of complex measures The measures envisage effective use of a tourist potential of the region with an active advertising campaign for the development of recreational tourism Kashkadarya region 34. Organization of a tourist complex with construction along a spring lake of three or four star hotel with 80 persons, a restaurant with 300 seats and an ethnographic mahalla for tourists September, 2018 Khokimiyats of the Kashkadarya Region (Ruziyev) and the Shahrisabz City, State Committee for Development of Tourism (Abdukhakimov), Joint-Stock Commercial Bank Uzpromstroybank (Mirsoatov), initiator of the project —Kukhna Turon LLC 5 000,0 10 000,0 Funds of the initiator Commercial bank credit Realization of complex measures The measures envisage the provision of a variety of services provided to tourists, the satisfaction of tourists' needs for recreation in natural conditions and familiarization with local handicrafts 35. Construction of a three/four star hotel for 80 persons and a restaurant for 200 people along Nizami street in the Shakhrisabz City December, 2018 Khokimiyat of the Kashkadarya Region (Ruziyev), initiator of the project — private enterprise «Astanova Malohat Uzakovna», commercial bank 1 000,0 3 000,0 Funds of the initiator Commercial bank credit Realization of complex measures The measures are aimed at increasing the number of places in hotels in the Shakhrisabz City by 80 places and the formation of tours providing for spending a night in the Shakhrisabz ciTy 36. Construction of a three/four star hotel for 200 persons, a restaurant for 300 seats, a cinema hall, a children's playground and a place for family recreation along the Jayhun street in the Karshi City December, 2018 Khokimiyat of the Kashkadarya Region (Ruziyev), initiator of the project — private enterprise «Nazira», Joint-Stock Commercial Bank «Ipoteka Bank» (Musayev) 10 000,0 5 000,0 Funds of the initiator Commercial bank credit Realization of complex measures The measures envisage the increase in a number of places in hotels in the Karshi City by 200 places, the satisfaction of needs of the local population for recreation, as well as the development of domestic tourism Navoi region 37. Organization of a beach recreation on the southern shores of the Tudakul Lake for development of domestic tourism May, 2018 Khokimiyat of the Navoi Region (Tursunov), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), ministries and departments, business entities 800,0 Funds of project initiators, commercial bank loans Realization of complex measures The measures provide for meeting needs of the local population and the neighboring regions for beach recreation, as well as development of the beach recreation infrastructure 38. Development of ecological tourism and beach recreation on the shores of the Aidarkul Lake for foreign tourists May, 2018 Khokimiyats of the Navoi Region (Tursunov) and the Nurata District (Khamroyev), State Tax Committee (Parpiyev), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), concerned ministries and departments, commercial banks, business entities According to the design estimates Funds of project initiators, commercial bank loans Realization of complex measures The measures are aimed at diversifying the services provided to tourists, maximizing the use of desert landscape resources for tourism and organizing recreation on the shores of the Aidarkul Lake Namangan region 39. Adoption of a set of measures to improve the tourist infrastructure and create conditions for the development of domestic tourism in the village Chodak of the Pap District May, 2018 Khokimiyats of the Namangan Region (Bazarov) and the Pap District (Ergashev), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), interested ministries and departments, commercial banks, business entities According to the design estimates Funds of project initiators, commercial bank loans Realization of complex measures The measures envisage meeting needs of the local population and the neighboring regions for recreation in nature, as well as the development of recreational tourism infrastructure Samarkand region 40. Creation of the tourist zone «Samarkand City» with construction of hotels of various classes of service, cottages, entertainment and commercial establishments, including amphitheater, bowling clubs, karaoke bars, cafes, restaurants, souvenir and other shops on its territory November, 2018 National Bank for Foreign Economic Activities (Kholmuradov), khokimiyat of the Samarkand Region (Djurayev), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), State Committee for Investment (Akhmedkhujayev) According to the design estimates Funds and credits commercial bank, funds of investment companies, investors and charity funds of donor organizations Realization of complex measures The measures are aimed at creating a tourist display facility that provides a year-round and a round-the-clock leisure and cultural pastime for tourists in the historic city, as well as an increase in the number of days of their stay in the city 41. Construction on the territory of a rowing canal in the Samarkand District of the sports and tourist and recreational area, consisting of a modern gym, sports grounds, indoor swimming pool, allowing year-round training camps, as well as the family-type hotel complexes, cottage village and other recreational infrastructure for family recreation residents of the Samarkand City and the Samarkand Region, as guests and tourists November, 2018 Joint-Stock Commercial Bank Uzpromstroybank (Mirsoatov), khokimiyat of the Samarkand Region (Djurayev), State Committee for Sports (Kurbanov), National Olympic Committee (Sultanov), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), investment companies, business entities According to the design estimates Funds and credits of the commercial bank, funds of business enterprises and investment companies Realization of complex measures The measures envisage the development of sports and health tourism, the creation of conditions for development of water sports, as well as the organization of family recreation for the local population and guests 42. Reconstruction of the hotel complex «Afrosiyob» in the Samarkand City with preservation of the cultural heritage site located in the complex 2017-2018 Khokimiyat of the Samarkand Region (Djurayev), State Committee on Privatization, Demonopolization and Development of Competition (Gulyamov), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), foreign investor 81 000,0* (preliminary input cost in operation) Funds of project initiators, commercial bank loans Realization of complex measures The measures are aimed at increasing the number of places in the city hotels by 500 places with a solution of a lack of places during the high tourist season, and the provision of hotel services at a high level Surkhandarya region 43. Organization of the construction of a memorial complex of Buddhism in the Termez City with a construction of the Japanese garden (up to 1 hectare), the Japanese-style hotel «Ryokan», the memorial square and the museum Kyudzo Kato, with an information campaign to promote the complex in the East and the South-East Asia, and: August, 2018 Khokimiyat of the Surkhandarya Region (Turdimov), National Company of Export-Import Insurance «Uzbekinvest» (Аzimov), Ministry of Culture (Sayfullayev), business entities According to the design estimates Funds of performers, project initiators and loans from commercial banks, grants from international organizations, as well as other sources not prohibited by law Realization of complex measures The measures suppose the propagation of the multifaceted religious and spiritual heritage of the ancient ancestors of the Uzbek people, the promotion of an idea of ​​careful attitude and preservation of the historical and cultural heritage, the dissemination of knowledge about the rich history of the country, and also the acquaintance of the general public, especially tourists from the East Asia with the history and heritage of the region development of the concept of creating a memorial complex; November, 2017 Ministry of Culture (Sayfullayev) definition of the boundaries of the land plots of the memorial complex; November, 2017 Khokimiyat of the Surkhandarya Region (Тurdimov) attraction of private investors for the organization of hotel construction; October, 2017 Khokimiyat of the Surkhandarya Region (Тurdimov) study of the issue of attracting grants from international financial institutions, including Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) December, 2017 State Committee for Investments (Akhmedkhujayev), National Company of Export-Import Insurance «Uzbekinvest» (Аzimov), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Кamilov) Tashkent region 44. Construction of a tourist hotel complex in the Chimgan mountain range of the Bostanlyk District I stage — September, 2018, II stage — September, 2020 Khokimiyats of the Tashkent Region (Babayev) and the Bostanlik District, foreign investor 1 139 600,0* (preliminary input cost in operation) Funds of foreign investor Realization of complex measures The measures are aimed at creating a hotel complex as part of the development of mountain tourism. This complex will provide an increase in the number of places in the means of accommodation of the region, and also contribute to the provision of quality hotel services Ferghana region 45. Creation of a wine tourism complex on the basis of the agro-industrial firm «Mindonobod» in the Fergana City with organization of walks through the grape fields, acquaintance with the cooking process and wine tasting October, 2017 Khokimiyats of the Ferghana Region (Ganiyev) and the Ferghana City (Erkaboyev), Uzvinpromxolding» Company (Rakhimov), State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), agro-industrial firm «Мindonobod» 200,0 Funds of the project initiator Realization of complex measures The measures will provide for the creation of a tourist display facility for diversifying the composition of tourist routes and increasing the number of days of touristsʼ stay in the region 46. Completion of construction works and putting into operation of a hotel for 150 places along the Nurafshon street in the Fergana City October, 2019 Khokimiyats of the Fergana Region (Ganiyev) and the Fergana City (Erkaboyev), Ministry of Construction (Тukhtayev), Joint-Stock Bank «Аsakа» (Мullajonov), initiator of the project (Private enterprise «Diamond») 3 500,0 5 000,0 Funds of the initiator, commercial bank loan Realization of complex measures The measures are aimed at increasing the number of places in hotels of the Fergana City by 150 places and providing hotel services at a high level 47. Construction of a four-storey hotel with 200 places at an intersection of the Ahmad al-Fargoniy and the Bahor streets in the Fergana City September, 2018 Khokimiyats of the Ferghana Region (Ganiyev) and the Ferghana City (Erkaboyev), Joint-Stock Bank «Hamkor» (Kadirov), initiator of the project («All metal gold» LLC) 4 000,0 Funds of the initiator, loan of the commercial bank Realization of complex measures The measures envisage an increase in the number of places in hotels of the Fergana City by 200 places and provision of hotel services at a high level 48. Organization of centers of artisans and tourism in the cities of Margilan, Ferghana, Kokand and in the Rishtan District of the Fergana Region, providing for the creation of necessary conditions for tourists to stay, including construction of guest houses with a possibility of demonstrating master classes with direct participation of tourists, as well as food stations with the opportunity to demonstrate a rich national cuisine The first quarter of 2018 Khokimiyats of the Ferghana Region (Ganiyev) and cities of Ferghana (Erkaboyev), Margilan (Ubaydullayev), Kokand (Jalilov), the Rishtan District (Мamadaliyev), Ministry of Construction (Тuhktayev), commercial banks, craftsmen. According to the design estimates Funds and credits of a commercial bank, funds of performers. Realization of complex measures The measures are aimed at a creation of tourist attractions to diversify the composition of tourist routes and increase the number of days of stay of tourists in the region V. Promotion of the national tourist product in the domestic and foreign markets 49. Development and implementation of effective strategy for a targeted promotion of the national tourist product in the key tourist markets (Russia and CIS countries; the Muslim world, including Turkey, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Persian Gulf countries; South-East Asia — China, Republic of Korea and Japan; European countries). Constant promotion of the country's tourist potential through the demonstration of promotional videos (on history, culture and nature of Uzbekistan) in foreign media, on the Internet and through the diplomatic missions abroad, as well as on major TV channels of the world such as Euronews, Eurosport, BBC, CNN, NНK, CCTV, Arirang, Viasat Нistory, Discovery, National Geographic, Travel Channel. Placing educational and informational materials about the tourist potential of Uzbekistan with the use of colorful photos on popular tourist blogs. 2018-2019 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kamilov), Ministry of Culture (Sayfullayev), National Airline Company «O'zbekiston havo yo'llari» (Тyan), JSC «O'zbekiston temir yo'llari» (Shukurov), concerned ministries and departments According to the design estimates Funds of the event participants Development and implementation of marketing strategy to promote tourist potential in the world markets The strategy will be aimed at increasing the tourist flow from foreign countries, promoting the tourist potential of the country at international exhibitions and fairs, assistance in expanding partnerships between business entities of Uzbekistan and foreign countries. Activities in this direction also provides for the preparation of high-quality promotional materials, brochures, booklets, tourist maps, festivals and exhibitions, short educational films and reportages in foreign languages about the historical and cultural attractions of the country and their wide dissemination on the Internet and social networks with involvement of foreign specialists 50. Signing agreements on cooperation between the State Committee for Development of Tourism and the accredited foreign media in order to regularly promote the tourist product on world markets and the systematic dissemination of information on the development of tourism in Uzbekistan 2017 — 2019 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kamilov) — — Sending of proposals and signing of agreements It is planned to create a permanent «pool» of foreign media partners under the State Committee for Development of Tourism, which will provide timely and regular coverage of information about the activities of the State Committee for Development of Tourism аnd the development of the tourism industry of the country 51. Expansion of the practice of conducting informational tours under the "Hosted Buyers" program for foreign associations of tour operators and the media, while providing them with a preferential order of visiting the tourist facilities of the country 2017 — 2019 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), Ministry of Culture (Sayfullayev), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Каmilov), State Customs Committee (Тokhiriy), National Airline Company «O'zbekiston havo yo'llari» (Тyan), JSC «O'zbekiston temir yo'llari» (Shukurov), Council of Ministers of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, khokimiyats of regions and the Tashkent City According to the design estimates Funds of the event participants, the Fund for Tourism Sphere Support under the State Committee for Development of Tourism Complex of measures These measures envisage the promotion of the tourist brand of the country abroad, as well as the implementation of effective policies to promote its tourist potential 52. Working out with international and regional organizations the issues on conduct in Uzbekistan of international conferences, symposiums, forums and seminars under their auspices and their financial support, while providing the organizers of these events with competitive prices and other favorable conditions 2017 — 2019 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), Ministry of Foreign Trade (Ganiyev), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Каmilov), Ministry of Economy (Saidova), Ministry of Finance (Khodjayev), State Committee for Investment (Аkhmedkhujayev), State Committee on Privatization, Demonopolization and Development of Competition (Gulyamov), ministries and departments According to the design estimates Funds of the performers Realization of complex measures The measures envisage the organization of international conferences, symposiums, forums and seminars in Uzbekistan, which will ensure the full promotion of the tourist brand of the country abroad, as well as implement an effective policy to promote its tourist potential 53. Opening of information centers across the country providing for free of charge extensive information for tourists, including about available options for booking tickets and hotel rooms, purchasing souvenirs, books and maps, especially at airports and railway stations by stage, from 2018 State Committee for Development of Tourism (Аbdukhakimov), Ministry of Information Technologies and Communications (Shermatov), National Airline Company «O'zbekiston havo yo'llari» (Тyan), JSC «O'zbekiston temir yo'llari» (Shukurov), ministries and departments, business entities According to the design estimates Funds of the performers Plan of events performers The plan is aimed at the attraction of technical assistance from donor organizations, the development of necessary software, the improvement of a quality and expansion of the range of information services provided to tourists, including in the online mode (booking air and railway tickets, hotel rooms, etc.), as well as the provision of free orientation of tourists along the route Total 1 360 650,00

* At the rate of the Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan as of July 25, 2017.

Note: The estimated cost is subject to refinement based on the results of development of the design estimates.

APPENDIX № 3 to the Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan of August 16, 2017 № RP-3217

LIST

of foreign countries with which is planned to work out and sign in 2018-2019 international agreements on expanding cooperation in the field of tourism

1. Republic of Turkey 2. Italian Republic 3. Federal Republic of Germany 4. The French Republic 5. Kingdom of Spain 6. Socialist Republic of Vietnam 7. Republic of Tajikistan 8. Republic of Kyrgyzstan 9. Georgia

APPENDIX № 4 to the Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan of August 16, 2017 № RP-3217

COMPOSITION

of the Working Group on preparation of proposals for the phased simplification of visa and registration procedures for foreign tourists, including pilgrims

Аtayev М.I. — First Deputy Secretary of the Security Council under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Head of the Working Group Аbdukhakimov А.А. — Chairman of State Committee for Development of Tourism, Deputy Head of the Working Group Kurmanov А.А. — Chairman of the Committee on International Relations, Foreign Economic Relations, Foreign Investments and Tourism of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan (as agreed) By position — Head of the Information and Analytical Department for Tourism Development of the Cabinet of Ministers By agreement — Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs By agreement — Deputy Chairman of the National Security Service Eminjanov Р.О. — Deputy Chairman of the National Security Service — Commander of the Border Troops of the National Security Service Nazarmukhamedov D.А. — First Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs Norov V.I. — Director of the Institute for Strategic and Interregional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Sayfulov R.А. — Head of the Sector of Staff of the Security Council under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Sharapov А.К. — Head of the Sector of Staff of the Security Council under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Yusupov О.О. — Chairman of the Committee for Religious Affairs under the Cabinet of Ministers Raimov B.Y. — First Deputy Chairman of the State Customs Committee Uljayev Т.E. — Head of the State Supervision Inspection for Safety of Flights Tashkhodjayev U.Sh. — Deputy Head of the Main Department for Migration and Citizenship of the Ministry of Internal Affairs Аzizov B.B. — Head of the Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Sharakhmetov Sh.Sh. — Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Tourism Development, Executive Secretary of the Working Group.

Note: when members of the Working Group move to another job, it includes persons newly appointed to these posts or entrusted with the respective functions.

The Head of the Working Group is given the right to additionally include new members in the Working Group, as well as to involve experts and specialists from other ministries and departments.

COMMENTS

to the Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan «On Priority Measures for the Development of Tourism Sphere for 2018-2019 of August 16, 2017

In the Republic of Uzbekistan, successive measures are being taken to develop the tourism sphere, which has a wide potential for solving the most important socio-economic tasks in the near future such as creating jobs, ensuring economic diversification and accelerated development of regions, inflow of foreign exchange earnings, increasing incomes and quality of life of the population. In this context, the adoption of the Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan «On Priority Measures for the Development of Tourism Sphere for 2018-2019 is considered as a logical continuation of the state policy in the sphere of tourism and aims at maximizing the favorable conditions for creation of a comfortable economic, administrative and legal environment for an accelerated development of tourism, expanding the economic potential of regions and their income base, ensuring employment of the population, increasing tourist flows to the country, and аctive and integrated promotion of the national tourism product in world markets. In particular, this document approves the Program of Priority Measures for the Development of Tourism for 2018-2019 aimed at improving normative and legal regulation, development of international cooperation in the area, ensuring the availability of travel to Uzbekistan, development of tourism and related infrastructure in all regions of the country, diversification of tourist product and creation of new tourism facilities, as well as promotion of the national tourist product in the domestic and foreign markets. At the same time, special attention is paid to measures on creation of a modern tourist infrastructure in the regions of Uzbekistan. To this end, the Program plans to build the recreation areas in the Khanabad City of the Andijan region, five new modern recreation areas on the shores of the Aydar-Arnasoy lakes in the Farish and Arnasay Districts of the Jizzakh region, four-star hotels in Shakhrisabz and Karshi of the Kashkadarya region, hotel complex on the Chimgan massif of the Bostanlyk district of the Tashkent region, as well as organization of a beach holiday on the southern shores of the Tudakul lake for domestic tourism and on the shores of the Aydarkul Lake for foreign tourists in the Navoi region. In addition, the Resolution provides for the introduction of a system of regular review under the leadership of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan of the implementation of activities included in the Program of Priority Measures for the Development of Tourism for 2018-2019. To this end: under the Cabinet of Ministers is established the Coordination Council on Development of Tourism for the implementation of a system control over the implementation of the Program, the coordination of activities of ministries and departments to implement it, promptly address and resolution of issues that hinder development of tourism in the country; the territorial councils established for development of tourism, headed by the Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, regional khokims and the Tashkent City in order to ensure timely, high-quality and full implementation of the planned measures. The Resolution contains a number of instructions aimed at implementation of the following measures for the development of tourism: attraction of tourists in the area of pilgrimage (ziyorat) tourism to the holy places in the Republic of Uzbekistan with solution of logistics issues, including the organization of charter flights; phased creation similarly to tourist zones in Bukhara and Samarkand of the tourist zones in Tashkent, Urgench and Ferghana, and also mountain clusters in the Bostanlyk district of the Tashkent region; attraction of foreign investment in the created tourist zones and mountain (foothill) tourist clusters, as well as leading hotel brands to the country for the construction of new hotels or transferring them the management of domestic hotel facilities. In this regard, it is planned to regularly submit the proposals on simplifying visa procedures and organizing pilgrimage (ziyorat) tourism for foreign tourists. To achieve this goal, a permanent Working Group is being established to prepare proposals for the phased simplification of visa and registration procedures for citizens of foreign countries based on the dynamics of development of the bilateral relations with these countries, the conjuncture of the world tourism market and the emerging international and regional situation. Along with this, in order to further develop international cooperation in tourism, it is planned that the State Committee for Development of Tourism of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan will develop mutually beneficial agreements and treaties with a number of foreign countries. One of the most important aspects of the Resolution is also its focus on creating a favorable environment for entrepreneurial activities in the field of tourism. To this end: the practice of allocating long-term loans (up to 15 years) to business entities for the construction of new and modernization of existing hotels and other tourist infrastructure facilities is being introduced, including the provision of flexible loan and interest repayment conditions, taking into account the capital intensity and seasonal congestion of hotels; acceptable fees (commissions) being established for the services provided to business entities for the transfer of funds in foreign currency, lease of terminals, collection of cash in freely convertible currency and others related to operations in foreign currency; hotel being released until January 1, 2022 from the payment of a single social payment from the fund of qualified foreign specialists involved as management personnel, as well as the income of qualified foreign specialists invited as hotel management personnel — from personal income tax. The present Resolution will give a new impetus to the further development of a tourism sector of the country, because the measures indicated in it will allow to increase the number of foreign tourists and the volume of export of tourist services, enhance the employment level through the creation of new jobs in the industry and increase the number of hotels, other accommodation facilities and subjects of tourist activity.