MPs explore growth points for tourism in Belarus, Russia

Domestic tourism has received a significant boost in the Union State of Belarus and Russia. “The tourist flow of Russians to Belarus and Belarusians to Russia has increased quite substantially over the past few years. We need to work together to create cross-border routes that will unite several regions of Russia and Belarus. We need to develop infrastructure for these routes and explore logistical possibilities. These could include not only bus tours; we must also utilize railway connections and new aviation routes,” stated Artem Turov, Chairman of the Commission on Youth Policy, Sport, and Tourism of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union State of Belarus and Russia, Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on CIS Affairs, Eurasian Integration, and Relations with Compatriots.

He noted that the growth in tourist flow is being facilitated by the launch of new air routes to various regions, as this creates opportunities for developing new tourist itineraries. There are already successful cases. “We see this with Kaliningrad Oblast and other Russian regions as well. I believe we have very significant growth points in this cooperation,” Artem Turov said.  He noted that the Commission's meetings are deliberately held in small towns with historical heritage and a unique charm. This allows experts to see firsthand what could interest tourists from Belarus and Russia.

Thus, today the participants discussed measures to develop tourism cooperation within the Union State, using Pinsk and Pinsk District of Brest Oblast as an example. “I made a point of waking up early today to walk the pedestrian route. There are so many interesting historical and cultural sites. I am convinced that Pinsk is a jewel of Belarus. It is the capital of Polesie region. It seems to me that both Russians and Belarusians would find it interesting to come here. There is plenty to see,” Artem Turov shared his impression.

Such meetings are a good opportunity for the parties to exchange experiences, identify areas for further growth, and coordinate actions considering changes and specific circumstances. “Structural changes are currently underway in Belarus's tourism sector. This is one of the areas that should gain momentum in the near future and also bring economic benefits to our country. Given our close ties and the extensive contacts in the tourism industry between Belarus and Russia, we must coordinate to move in the same direction," stated Sergei Klishevich, Deputy Chairman of the Commission on Youth Policy, Sport, and Tourism of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union State of Belarus and Russia, a member of the Standing Commission on Education, Culture, and Science of the House of Representatives. He added that the MPs are focused on helping develop solutions that will enable Belarusian and Russian cities to host as many tourists as possible.