ASTANA — Kazakhstan’s Presidential Property Management Department signed a memorandum with the World Tourism Organization to develop tourism in Kazakhstan during a Sept. 7 round table. UNWTO will provide access to research and data that will help Kazakhstan better understand global tourism trends, integrate into the international market and increase competitiveness.

Photo credit: UNWTO United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili took part in the meeting. Kazinform reported on Sept. 7 that Deputy Chief of Staff of the President of Kazakhstan Rustam Bayaliyev noted that cooperation with UNWTO will help Kazakhstan promote its resorts and locations worldwide.

According to him, the organization will provide access to research and data to help the country better understand global tourism trends, integrate into the international market and increase competitiveness. “Our task is to effectively develop the tourism industry and adapt to global trends. We have all the resources for success, and cooperation with UNWTO will be a key factor in integrating Kazakhstan into the global tourism industry,” Bayaliyev said.

He also stressed the need to implement infrastructure projects at the Burabay resort following environmental standards. The priorities include recreational areas, ecotourism, children’s and youth recreation, and water and winter sports areas. Pololikashvili said five years ago he voiced several ideas for popularizing Kazakh.