The ECO Working Group on Tourism Standardization (WGTS) convened its 5th gathering on January 31, 2024 in virtual mode with participation of representatives of the tourism authorities of Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkiye, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.
Chairing the meeting, Director for Tourism of the ECO Secretariat Mr. Jasur Rajabov underlined that the ECO set a target to adopt and implement international standards and certification programs in tourism sector to achieve the ultimate objective of increasing the competitiveness of the region as a global tourism destination, protecting the environment, and bringing tangible benefits to local communities.
Experts from the ECO Member States shared their insights and views on the development of the standardization document – “Common Criteria for Sustainability of the Tourism Accommodation Facilities in the ECO Region”. Focusing on the document, the meeting decided to extend its context with some important issues related to tourism sector, including capacity building measures, protection of culture and heritage, and clarification of the document’s implementation scope.
