Kazakhstan’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, Ermek Marzhikpayev, emphasized the significance of tourism within the SCO framework. He highlighted that 62% of foreign tourists visiting Kazakhstan are from SCO member countries, facilitated by a visa-free regime with nearly all member nations.
Marzhikpayev remarked on the economic impact of tourism, citing its role in job creation and investment in key economic sectors. He underscored Kazakhstan’s strategic location at the crossroads of ancient civilizations and major transport routes, stressing the need for ongoing development of transport infrastructure.
Kazakhstan currently operates 560 regular flights per week across 114 air routes to 28 countries. Among these, 245 flights are specifically between SCO member states, with efforts underway to increase this number. Additionally, the introduction of the 5th degree of “freedom of air” has allowed airlines like IndiGo, FlyNas, and Malaysian AirAsia X to operate flights to Kazakhstan without restrictions on frequency or aircraft type.
Marzhikpayev also addressed the importance of human capital development in tourism. He proposed an academic mobility program for students and faculty from tourism universities within SCO countries, leveraging the collective knowledge and expertise in the field.
Furthermore, Marzhikpayev mentioned the ongoing “Tourist and Cultural Capital of the SCO” project, noting that Almaty is ready to pass this title to the next city. He expressed support for Qingdao, China, as the next recipient of this status.
