The forum was organised with the support of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Akimat of the Mangystau Region. The event is attended by representatives of international organisations, including TURKSOY and the ECO, as well as representatives of government agencies, businesses, investors, and experts.

The main goal of the forum is to demonstrate the tourism and investment potential of the region, discuss the prospects for tourism development in Central Asia, and expand international cooperation.

The program of the forum includes plenary sessions devoted to investment attraction, transport accessibility, and the development of medical, event, and mass tourism.

Opening the forum, Yerbol Myrzabossynov noted:

“Tourism development is one of the government’s priority tasks. The state is implementing measures to promote domestic and inbound tourism, create a favourable investment climate, and expand opportunities for business. This year, a Comprehensive Development Plan for the Mangystau Region for 2025–2029 was adopted, which includes more than 100 activities with a total investment volume of about 401 billion tenge. The forum will become one of the steps opening up new opportunities for the region.”

Measures to simplify entry are in force in the country – a visa-free regime for citizens of 87 countries, direct flights to 30 states, and the “fifth freedom of the air” regime, which significantly increases Kazakhstan’s attractiveness for international travellers.

Akim of the Mangystau Region Nurdaulet Kilybay spoke about the development of the region’s tourism industry, emphasising that infrastructure projects are being implemented at an active pace.

“Mangystau is not only oil and gas, but also unique nature and rich cultural heritage. In accordance with the instructions of the President, we are carrying out systematic work to turn the region into an attractive centre for tourists and investors. We are creating favourable conditions for the development of tourism. But most importantly, in this area, we must not allow harm to ecology and the environment. In addition, our national values and culture must be preserved. The current goal is to integrate tourism in Mangystau as deeply as possible, while preserving the laws of the Kazakh steppe and national traditions,” said Nurdaulet Kilybay.

The Mangystau Region occupies a special place on the tourist map of Kazakhstan: the Caspian coast, the unique landscapes of Bozzhyra and Kyzylkup, and the rich historical and cultural heritage make the region one of the most promising destinations in Central Asia.

The forum in Aktau is intended to become a significant step in strengthening international cooperation and expanding investment opportunities, creating new momentum for the development of the tourism industry in Kazakhstan and the entire region.