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On June 23, the Kazakhstan-India Tourism Business Forum took place in Almaty, organised by the Akimat of the Almaty Region in partnership with the Embassy of India in Kazakhstan. This event served as an important platform to promote tourism as a catalyst for cultural exchange, business opportunities, and bilateral collaboration between the two countries.
Over 100 delegates attended, including tour operators, airline representatives, hoteliers, investors, healthcare professionals, and government officials. The forum facilitated valuable B2B and B2G discussions, alongside engaging presentations designed to foster ideas and create new synergies within the tourism sector.
Goa Tourism was represented by Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, accompanied by Sheikh Ismail, a prominent charter operator and representative of Concord Exotic Voyages. The delegation engaged with local tour operators and charter companies from the Almaty Region, many of whom expressed strong interest in expanding charter flights from Kazakhstan to Goa in the upcoming seasons.
The forum proved highly productive for everyone involved, underlining the shared goal of boosting tourism and fostering cultural ties between India and Kazakhstan. Goa’s reputation—as a world-class holiday location known for pristine beaches, historic architecture, lively festivals, and delicious cuisine—was met with great enthusiasm by Kazakh industry representatives, who expressed optimism about future collaborations.
The Indian Railway Corporation presented details of a new tourist train service, highlighting infrastructure projects designed to boost Indian tourism. Various Indian states showcased specialised travel circuits, with Goa’s unique natural beauty, coastal charm, and rich cultural heritage drawing particular attention. The event also highlighted the growing opportunities in medical and wellness tourism, exploring collaborative healthcare initiatives.
Kazakh representatives showcased the tourism attractions of the Almaty Region, including the scenic wellness destination of Oi-Qaragai. Air Astana provided updates on new flight routes and improved connections, underlining the Almaty region’s natural appeal and its potential to attract Indian visitors.
In further support of this burgeoning partnership, the Tourism Department of the Almaty Region formally proposed signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Goa Tourism. This agreement aims to promote joint tourism initiatives and share best practices in sustainable and regenerative tourism—perfectly aligning with Goa’s vision of balancing visitor experiences with ecological preservation and community development. This interaction paves the way for increased tourist arrivals from Kazakhstan to Goa, facilitated by direct charter flights and collaborative promotional campaigns.