November 17, 2022, Slovak delegation headed by the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Slovak Republic to Uzbekistan, Jan Bory, and Associate Professor of the Department of the International Trade Faculty of the University of Economics in Bratislava, Elena Kashtyakova visited "Silk Road" International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage. During the visit, Associate Professor Elena Kashtyakova gave a guest lecture to students on the topic: Support for the internationalization of small and medium-sized enterprises, family business, women in business and tourism business in Slovakia.

The purpose of the presentation is to explore the possibilities of the impact of the internationalization of SMEs, the formation of family business and tourism business on economic development in Slovakia with the possibility of implementation for Uzbekistan. During the lecture, Mr. Ambassador Jan Bory spoke in detail about the main natural and architectural attractions of Slovakia. At the end of his speech, Mr. Ambassador wished the students success in their studies and development, determination in mastering sciences and in achieving any goals, curiosity and interest in knowledge!

The parties discussed the prospects of cooperation in the educational sphere. The mission is aimed at further strengthening and developing positive dynamics in bilateral relations between Slovakia and Uzbekistan. It is noteworthy that the Ambassador of Slovakia to Uzbekistan Jan Bory donated a unique collection of scientific literature and textbooks to the library fund of the university. The books provided contain the latest research information about tourism, culture and customs of Slovakia, which will undoubtedly be of great benefit to our teachers and students in the process of scientific research and training.

During the introductory tour, the guests were introduced to the unique smart campus and the innovative library of the university. They 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 installed by the galleries and the University Library.