The
strong link between sustainable tourism and the rich cultural
heritage of the Silk Road was a major talking point during the
meeting, which agreed on a range of actions to strengthen the Silk
Road Programme.
Millions
of cross border visits take place between the Silk Road countries,
and a clear need has been identified to promote new sustainable
tourism products, focusing on three pillars: marketing and promotion,
capacity building, and travel facilitation
“Being
part of the Silk Road offers destinations a unique opportunity to
leverage collaboration on these key areas”, said UNWTO
Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai, in greeting the Task Force Meeting.
“This meeting will enhance cooperation between the countries along
the Silk Road, raise the profile of Silk Road tourism and contribute
to drive sustainable and responsible development along this amazing
route”, he added.
During
the meeting, the delegates developed a range of creative ideas
including the vision of a Silk Road Festival, interactive portal and
the concept of creating a Silk Road Tourism Partnership, aimed at
promoting the world’s longest trade and culture route.
UNWTO
took the opportunity of the event to present a plaque in recognition
of the Minister of Culture and Tourism of Azerbaijan, Abulfaz
Garayev, for his 12 outstanding years of service. Minister Garayev is
one of the world's longest serving tourism ministers and a passionate
ambassador for the Silk Road.
The
consolidated outcomes of the Task Force Meeting will be will report
to the 6th International meeting of the Silk Road Programme to be
held in China on 1-3 August 2013.
