By Lee Kap-soo

The tourism potential of the Aktobe region in Kazakhstan was presented at the Road Show - “Visit Aktobe 2023”- on Dec. 11.

The event was attended by representatives of leading tour operators, airlines, tourism experts as well as the media of the two countries.

As part of the event, guests were familiarized with popular tourist routes of the Aktobe region, and the best works of Aktobe designers, artisans and jewelers were demonstrated. The guests were particularly interested in stands with traditional Kazakh sweets and treats.

Opening the event, Ambassador Nurgali Arystanov of Kazakhstan in Seoul noted the positive growth dynamics of South Korean tourists and informed of the efforts to increase the number of flights and open new air routes between the two countries.

President of the Korea World Travel Fair (KOTFA) Shin Joong Mok emphasized that interest in Kazakhstan is growing in South Korea. He added that he hopes to cooperate with Kazakh tour operators.

Following the event, a number of bilateral meetings were held in the B2B format.

The following is the full-text of the speech delivered by Ambassador Nurgali Arystanov of Kazakhstan in Seoul.

Ladies and gentlemen, 
Distinguished guests, 
Dear friends,

It is with great pleasure and honor that I stand before you today to celebrate the official opening ceremony of the RoadShow of the Aktobe Region here in Seoul.

First and foremost, I extend my sincerest appreciation to Mr. Lee Se Ung, the Honorary Chairman of the Shin Il Educational Foundation for his kind support and arrangement this beautiful venue for this event.

I would like to convey my gratitude to Mr. Shin Joong Mok, President & CEO of the Korea World Travel Fair (KOTFA), Mr. Keum Gi Hyung, Adjacent Professor of Korea National University of Cultural Heritage for being with us today.

Also, today we have our friends from biggest tour companies, as Hana Tour, Yellow Balloon Tour, Mode Tour, Hyunwoo Tour, One Korea travel agency and many others.

And special thanks I would like to extend to our friends from Air Astana and Asiana Airlines.

Dear friends!

The RoadShow of the Aktobe Region is a testament to the vibrant economic landscape and the immense potential for collaboration between our countries. Aktobe, with its rich cultural heritage, diverse industries, and strategic location, offers a unique and promising touristic and investment destination. Today's ceremony not only showcases the economic prowess of Aktobe but also serves as a platform for fostering stronger people-to-people ties and partnerships between touristic companies, businesses and institutions from both nations.

I am so grateful to the delegation from the Aktobe region, who have worked tirelessly to make this event possible. Mr. Zhasulan Karatayev, Adviser to the Governor of Aktobe Region and Mr. Yersain Siyunov, Director of Visit Aktobe and many others are here with us today. Your dedication and commitment to strengthening the bonds between Kazakhstan and the Republic of Korea are commendable, and I am confident that the RoadShow will be a resounding success.

The Republic of Korea has long been a valued partner for Kazakhstan, and events like these pave the way for increased cooperation in various fields, including trade, investment, technology, and cultural exchange. Korea is the 4th largest trade partner of Kazakhstan and 6th largest investor in Kazakhstan in terms of FDI attracted during this year.

We have 11 direct flights per week, kindly supported our friends from Air Astana and Asiana Airlines. Now, we are working on extension of additional flights and new routes. In the first 6 months of this year, number of tourists from Korea visited Kazakhstan, increased 3 times. So, Kazakhstan is becoming popular destination for the Korean tourists.

Today we will witness the unveiling of the opportunities that Aktobe has to offer, so let us seize this moment to explore avenues for mutual growth and prosperity. To all participants present here today, I encourage you to explore the vast potential that Aktobe Region presents. The region's economic diversification, infrastructure development, and commitment to sustainable practices make it an attractive destination for collaboration.

In conclusion, as we embark on this journey of collaboration and friendship, let us embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. May the RoadShow of the Aktobe Region be a harbinger of prosperity, unity, and enduring friendship between Kazakhstan and the Republic of Korea.