2024 World Tourism Leader Award Presented to Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States
Ambassador Kubanychbek Ömuraliyev, the Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States (TDT), has been honored with the prestigious 2024 World Tourism Leader Award during the Global Tourism Forum Annual Meeting in Brussels earlier this month. This recognition highlights the collective efforts of the Turkic States in advancing tourism through innovative multilateral projects led by Ömuraliyev.
The World Tourism Leader Award is bestowed upon individuals who have made substantial and enduring contributions to the global tourism industry. By acknowledging Ambassador Ömuraliyev’s active role, the award also shines a spotlight on the collaborative endeavors of the Turkic States in the realm of tourism.
Member states of the CSA have made significant strides through joint initiatives in creating sustainable, inclusive, and culturally rich tourism experiences on an international scale. This award cements Ambassador Ömuraliyev’s name among the esteemed past recipients like Indonesian President Joko Widodo and former President of the European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso, showcasing effective leadership in fostering cooperation and innovation in the tourism sector within the Turkic region.
The Turkic States operate under the TDT’s guidance to foster a shared vision in various realms, including tourism. Through the implementation of vital multilateral projects aimed at enhancing connectivity, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering economic growth via tourism, the organization’s strategic framework steers them towards progress.
Pioneering projects spearheaded by the Turkic States revolve around revitalizing the historical importance of the Silk Road and transforming it into a globally alluring tourism hotspot. The Turkish Silk Road Project serves as a cornerstone of this collaboration, uniting the historical landmarks along the Silk Road within member countries to offer travelers an immersive exploration of the region’s rich cultural and historical tapestry.
An innovative initiative, the Turkish World Tourism Capital program, launched in 2021, aims to cultivate regional unity by designating one member city each year to host cultural events, conferences, and festivals, showcasing its distinctive heritage. Recently, Jalal-Abad city in Kyrgyzstan was announced as the “Turkish World Tourism Capital” for 2025, following the footsteps of cities like Kokand, Shamakhi, and Turkestan.
Under Ambassador Ömuraliyev’s leadership, TDT has spearheaded transformative projects that redefine regional tourism through cooperation, sustainability advocacy, and leveraging the region’s cultural richness. Initiatives such as vocational training programs, capacity-building workshops, and eco-tourism projects underscore TDT’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and professional development in the tourism sector.
This award not only underscores CSA’s ability to translate a common regional vision into global relevance but also showcases the growing impact of the Turkic States in the global tourism industry. It underscores their capability to promote sustainable development and cultural preservation through united actions.
As TDT continues to deepen its collaboration, the future holds promises of expanded flight connections, the development of a comprehensive Turkish World Tourism Map, and the continuation of projects like the Turkish Silk Road and Tabarruk Ziyarat initiatives. Ambassador Ömuraliyev’s recognition as the 2024 World Tourism Leader exemplifies the strength of solidarity and cooperation in the journey towards development. It symbolizes the collective resolve of the Turkic States to position their region as a premier global tourism destination, celebrating their vibrant heritage while embracing a vision of sustainable growth. For more details on the award and its former recipients, one can visit www.worldtourismforum.net/leader-in-tourism-award.
