Bishkek, December 6, 2024 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has presented the interim results of its efforts to develop adventure tourism in Kyrgyzstan. During a working meeting with national partners and representatives of the business community, key steps were discussed to create a sustainable systemic approach to supporting the tourism sector in the regions, with active involvement of local self-government bodies. Participants included Maksat Usubaliev, Director of the Department of Tourism; Nurbek Saparov, Executive Director of the Kyrgyz Association of Tour Operators; and Albina Alimova, President of the Central Asian Association for Sustainable Tourism.

“Kyrgyzstan’s unique natural resources and rich cultural heritage make it an ideal destination for adventure tourism. Developing this sector contributes to the socio-economic growth of the regions, creates jobs, and increases household incomes. It is crucial to continue implementing eco-friendly and sustainable approaches in tourism. UNDP has been a reliable partner in this direction for many years,” noted Maksat Usubaliev, Director of the Department of Tourism.

UNDP actively supports the development and implementation of national programs and priorities of the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic, such as the National Development Program of the Kyrgyz Republic until 2026, green economy programs for 2024–2028, and sustainable tourism development programs for 2025–2030. Additionally, UNDP fosters initiatives aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by integrating international approaches into the national context.

UNDP plays a significant role in establishing a sustainable and inclusive value chain for adventure tourism. Through strategic partnerships and capacity-building activities, the organization helps local communities utilize natural landscapes and cultural heritage to create innovative tourism products.

“The development of adventure tourism promotes economic growth, supports the achievement of the SDGs, and preserves ecosystems and cultural traditions. It provides local communities with opportunities to participate in sustainable development and derive economic benefits,” emphasized Monica Rijal, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in Kyrgyzstan.

As a result of the meeting, participants developed key recommendations to enhance the tourism sector:

• Strengthen coordination between government agencies and the private sector.
• Develop and implement quality service standards at all stages.
• Establish a system for sustainable management of tourism routes at the local level, involving stakeholders, including local self-governments.
• Support green tourism through programs for small and medium-sized businesses, tax incentives, simplified licensing processes, and educational initiatives.
• Present UNDP initiatives on inclusivity, including support for women's entrepreneurship and ideas for people with disabilities.

UNDP also contributes to improving infrastructure, introducing eco-friendly practices, and supporting local entrepreneurs, thereby enhancing economic diversification and preserving Kyrgyzstan's unique natural and cultural assets.

The "Aid for Trade" project will continue its work to strengthen the capacity of participants in the adventure tourism value chain through training, implementation of quality standards for tourism services, and adoption of best practices in green and sustainable tourism. These measures will help create new opportunities for regional economic development, generate jobs, and strengthen Kyrgyzstan’s position as a unique adventure tourism destination.

About the UNDP “Aid for Trade” Project:

UNDP is implementing the fifth phase of the regional “Aid for Trade in Central Asia” project, funded by the Government of Finland. The project supports Central Asian countries (Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan) in fostering inclusive and sustainable growth by promoting "green" value chains and enhancing the competitiveness of the three economies. The project aims to build resilient, secure, and gender-responsive economic structures through economic diversification and adaptation to new market and consumer trends.

For more information about the development of the tourism value chain in Kyrgyzstan, click here.

For additional information:

Ainagul Abdrakhmanova, UNDP Communications Officer at ainagul.abdrakhmanova@undp.org 

Janybek Pakyrov, Project Manager, FSDS NGO, janybek.pakyrov@fsds.kg