DUSHANBE , July 25, Asia-Plus - Tajikistan ’s Ministry of Economy and Trade intends to take measures to develop tourism in the country.

Economy and Trade Minister, Hakim Soliyev, told a news conference in Dushanbe   on July 25 that development of tourism is slow to get going in Tajikistan .  

According to him, 16,890 tourists have visited Tajikistan so far this year, which is 2,000 tourists more compared to the same period of 2005.  “6,938 Tajik tourists have visited other countries over the same six-month period,” the minister said.  

“In January-June of this year, Tajikistan have received US$2.5 million from tourism, while in the previous year this amount had been not more than US$1.3 million,” said the minister, “However, it is very few; if we put things right the situation will much improve.” 

Hakim Soliyev also pointed to the necessity of developing domestic tourism in Tajikistan .  “For example, we could organize horse-drive carriage routes in Dushanbe, from the center of the city to the Ayni Park in the northern part of Dushanbe at the rate of US$5.00 per each client,” Mr. Soliyev said, noting that such horse-drive carriages will most likely appear in Dushanbe in near future.   

Besides, Tajikistan ’s joining the World Trade Organization (WTO) will give an opportunity for further development of tourism in the republic,” the minister expressed hope.