The visit of the President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to the United States has laid the ground for easing the visa regime and boosting tourism, including through raising number of direct flights, theDeputy Minister of Transport Jasurbek Choriev told the Uzbekistan 24 TV channel in an interview.
"Our president's visit is the main indicator, the main step. Our president always opens the most important gates. When the heads of two states agree on key areas, including transport, I think it will be easier for us to work. There are many goals and there is a lot we can learn from them, and there are areas where we can exchange experience," said Jasurbek Choriev.
He underscored a major contract with Boeing Corporation, which provides for the supply of 22 wide-body Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. The addition of new aircraft in the future will make it possible to expand the geography of long-haul flights, including more destinations in the United States, the deputy minister said. Today, Uzbekistan Airways operates direct flights between Tashkent and New York.
Jasurbek Choriev added that the deals signed between the countries would contribute to the development of tourism and business ties.
"A decree has been issued recently on a 30-day visa-free from January 1 for US nationals. Simplification of travel for our fellow countrymen and businesses is also on the table," he said.
In April, US Ambassador Jonathan Henick underscored that the difficulties in obtaining a US visa were due to some Uzbeks failing to comply with the established visa rules.
