Leading influencers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization member countries visited Uzbekistan and met with Deputy Prime Minister-Minister of Tourism and Cultural Heritage, Rector Aziz Abdukhakimov at the “Silk Road” International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage.

Communicating with bloggers, Aziz Abdukhakimov spoke about the reforms in the tourism sector in Uzbekistan and about the large-scale work carried out on the eve of the SCO summit in order to reflect the spirit of Samarkand.

During the introductory tour of the university, the influencers were impressed by the management model and advanced technologies used in the learning process, as well as the unique historical elements of the Great Silk Road.

As Vladimir Dervenev, a representative of the Russian Federation, a member of the World Club of Petersburgers and the Russian Geographical Community, noted: "I was struck by the magnificent modern “Silk Road” International University: any proposals from the leadership here are sent directly to the minister. This is the dream of the rector of any university. It is a wonderful resource for the development of both the university itself and tourism in general." Also during the visit, he presented the university library with a book of his authorship “The City believes".

The representative of Kyrgyzstan, the well–known blogger Adelet Nogoibayev, also shared his impressions about the university.

"At the “Silk Road” International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage, I liked the design and convenience of each classroom. I am sure we need to learn from your experience," says Nogoibayev.

The representative of Pakistan – a well-known blogger Sana Tosif shared her impressions: "You know, when we visited your University of tourism, it exceeded all our expectations, it's amazing! It is one of the most modern universities we have ever seen, and we were told that it is the first university in Central Asia for the development of tourism. Excellent initiatives of your government, and the support is obvious! We really want to visit your country again as tourists. Thank you again so much for your hospitality!"

It is worth noting that the influencers, in turn, visited cities such as Tashkent, Bukhara and Samarkand, where they personally witnessed changes in the tourism industry, highly appreciating the ongoing reforms.