On 21–22 August 2025, more than fifty tourism professionals, tour operators, guides, and representatives from government bodies gathered in Samarkand and Tashkent to explore new opportunities in sustainable tourism and community-based travel in Fergana Valley, Uzbekistan. The events were called “The Community Tourism Network (CTN) and New Silk Road Experiences in Fergana Valley” and were co-organized by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, Mascontour, and the Fergana Valley Community Tourism Network (CTN). They provided an engaging platform for networking, learning, and shaping the future of the Fergana Valley as a must-visit destination in Uzbekistan.

A Welcoming Atmosphere

From the very first coffee break, the atmosphere was buzzing with networking energy. Participants connected over tea, coffee, and lunch, exchanging ideas and building relationships that stretched well beyond the meeting room. This spirit of collaboration set the tone for two days filled with inspiring presentations and lively discussions.

Samarkand Event (21 August, Mövenpick Hotel)

The Samarkand program opened with a welcome video on the Fergana Valley, followed by remarks highlighting the valley’s UNESCO intangible heritage and natural treasures.

Key highlights included:

  • Presentations by Martin H. Petrich on new Fergana Valley CTN tour products, showcasing unique cross-border experiences, seasonal highlights, and the innovative “Stay with the Artisans” concept.
  • Introduction of CTN by Dr. Nicole Haeusler, supported by videos of artisans and handicraft traditions from the valley.
  • The kick-off of sustainable tourism initiatives, including the green hospitality trainer and a first Code of Conduct for responsible travel.

The afternoon sessions emphasized marketing strategies for Fergana Valley CTN and featured the presentation of “Miraki,” further inspiring collaboration between local and international operators.

Tashkent Event (22 August, Intercontinental Hotel)

The Tashkent gathering carried forward the same energy with a packed agenda:

  • An overview of GIZ’s tourism activities in Uzbekistan’s Fergana Valley from the past three years, reflecting on achievements and lessons learned.
  • CTN presentations once again impressed participants, with vivid testimonies from local artisans and tour operators.
  • Dr. Haeusler showcased the new CTN website and emphasized practical steps towards sustainable tourism marketing.

The event closed with coffee, snacks, and B2B networking, where many new contacts were established.

Engagement, Inquiries & Key Outcomes

The events resulted in tangible interest in organizing tours to the Fergana Valley. CTN received numerous inquiries from operators who saw strong potential in adding Fergana Valley tours to their portfolios and Uzbekistan itineraries.

To make things even more exciting, all participants were invited to leave their contact details for a special raffle. Six lucky winners walked away with free tour tickets to visit Fergana Valley in late autumn, a gesture that perfectly captured the spirit of connecting people with authentic experiences.

CTN also made sure to share the highlights live on Instagram and Facebook, extending the reach of the events to a wider audience.

Looking Ahead for Fergana Valley’s Tourism Development


The two events in Samarkand and Tashkent marked an important step in positioning the Fergana Valley as a hub for sustainable and community-driven tourism. With strong interest from tour operators, active participation from local artisans, and new networking bridges built, the momentum for future collaborations is clear.

We look forward to welcoming even more visitors to discover the rich heritage, vibrant crafts, and warm hospitality of the Fergana Valley.

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