The World Tourism Forum Institute (WTFI) has bestowed its prestigious Leader in Tourism Award upon H.E. Ambassador Kubanychbek Omuraliev, the esteemed Secretary-General of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). This significant accolade recognizes Ambassador Omuraliev’s extraordinary contributions to the global tourism landscape and his unwavering commitment to strengthening collaboration amongst the Turkic nations. The award ceremony, held on December 7th, 2024, marked a momentous occasion, celebrating a career dedicated to diplomacy and international relations.
Ambassador Omuraliev’s impressive 38-year career is a testament to his dedication and expertise. He has served with distinction as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kyrgyz Republic to several countries, including Türkiye, Israel, Belarus, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. This extensive experience provides a unique perspective that has undoubtedly shaped his approach to fostering tourism development within the OTS.
Since his appointment as Secretary-General in November 2022, Ambassador Omuraliev has played a pivotal role in transforming the OTS’s approach to cultural and economic ties among its member states. Under his visionary leadership, the organization has launched several impactful initiatives focused on tourism. A prime example is the highly successful First Turkic World Cultural Forum, held in Shusha, Azerbaijan, in October 2023. This event effectively showcased the power of cultural exchange in strengthening the bonds between Turkic nations, highlighting the vital role of tourism in promoting understanding and cooperation.
The Leader in Tourism Award, presented annually by the WTFI, is a testament to the exceptional achievements of individuals who have significantly advanced the global tourism sector. The award’s prestigious history includes past recipients such as Indonesian President Joko Widodo and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, placing Ambassador Omuraliev in the company of influential global leaders.
Ambassador Omuraliev’s forward-thinking vision perfectly aligns with the WTFI’s mission: to reshape economies through sustainable and impactful tourism. His initiatives have not only elevated the international profile of Turkic states within the tourism industry but have also cultivated a stronger sense of unity and collaboration amongst member nations. His commitment to using tourism as a catalyst for economic growth and cultural understanding serves as an inspiration to leaders worldwide, solidifying his position as a true leader in the field.
This award serves as a powerful symbol of the growing importance of tourism as a driver of economic development and cultural diplomacy, particularly within the dynamic and culturally rich region of the Turkic states. Ambassador Omuraliev’s achievements represent a significant step forward in promoting cooperation and understanding through the shared experiences facilitated by tourism.
