On April 17, the head of the Department of Protected Natural Areas, Zokir Rakhimov, met with a representative of JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency) in Uzbekistan, Wakui Akiko.

At the meeting, projects on the development of sustainable ecotourism in the national natural parks of Uzbekistan were discussed. In particular, attention was paid to the organization of Japanese-style ecotourism zones, visitor centers and animal shelters in the Zaamin National Nature Park.

"It is important for us to study the experience of Japan. This will allow us to further develop ecotourism and domestic tourism", said Zokir Rakhimov. "We also strive to introduce local and foreign tourists to the flora and fauna of Uzbekistan's national parks", he added.

The purpose of the negotiations is to involve Japanese specialists in the project in order to use Japan's experience in organizing ecotourism zones in national natural parks, send OPT employees to Japan for training in order to exchange experience between the two countries, and establish cooperation between the Department of Protected Areas and JICA.

"The nature of Uzbekistan is very beautiful, I was especially impressed by the natural places of Samarkand. I have also heard a lot about the Zaamin National Nature Park. The creation of ecotourism zones and the development of tourism here are certainly important and interesting for us", said Wakui Akiko.

Following the meeting, an agreement was reached on attracting Japanese specialists to Uzbekistan and sending wholesale employees to Japan for training and exchange of experience.