Beijing to Inaugurate Year of Kazakhstan Tourism in China

Beijing, The Gulf Observer: Media reports confirm that Beijing is poised to host the opening ceremony of the Year of Kazakhstan Tourism in China on March 28-29, heralding a new chapter in bilateral tourism cooperation.

A distinguished delegation from Kazakhstan, comprising governmental officials, esteemed athletes, and acclaimed performers, arrived in the Chinese capital on Tuesday, marking the commencement of celebratory events.

The decision to designate 2024 as the Year of Kazakhstan Tourism in China follows the fruitful visit of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to Beijing last year, where he participated in the One Belt, One Road International Cooperation Forum. During this significant gathering, both nations’ leaders engaged in fruitful discussions, culminating in the signing of several bilateral agreements. Subsequently, the proclamation of 2024 as the Year of Kazakhstan Tourism in China was a testament to the deepening friendship and strategic partnership between the two countries.

In anticipation of this milestone, Minister of Tourism and Sport of Kazakhstan, Yermek Marzhikpayev, held substantive discussions with Chinese Minister of Culture and Tourism, Sun Yeli, in early 2024. The meeting focused on outlining plans for the Year of Kazakhstan Tourism and exploring avenues for enhanced cooperation in the tourism sector. Central to the discussions was the Concept of Organization of the Year of Kazakhstan Tourism, aimed at orchestrating impactful events across major Chinese cities.

Minister Marzhikpayev underscored the significance of China as a priority tourism market and partner for Kazakhstan, owing to their shared historical ties along the Silk Road. Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, tourist flow indicators between the two countries have shown promising signs of recovery, with China consistently ranking among the top five countries from which visitors choose to explore Kazakhstan.

Statistics reveal a notable influx of Chinese tourists, with more than 200,000 visitors to Kazakhstan in the past year alone. Anticipating further growth, Kazakhstan is set to introduce a visa-free regime in November 2023 and increase the number of direct flights to 30 per week by 2024, further facilitating travel between the two nations.

As part of the Year of Kazakhstan Tourism festivities, Kazakhstan’s top 20 tourist destinations will be showcased in seven major Chinese cities, including Beijing, Xi’an, Shanghai, Urumqi, Hong Kong, Hangzhou, and Chengdu. This initiative aims to deepen cultural exchanges, foster mutual understanding, and strengthen tourism ties between Kazakhstan and China.

The opening ceremony in Beijing heralds a year-long celebration of cultural exchange and tourism promotion, symbolizing the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation between Kazakhstan and China.