Khatlon, Tajikistan - 05. June 2026

International Forum in Khatlon Highlights Tourism and Sustainable Development

The Forum served as an important platform for knowledge exchange and strengthening cooperation across various sectors of the economy, particularly in tourism, agriculture, digitalization, sustainable local economic development, and investment promotion

HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation Tajikistan, within the framework of the Climate Resilient Development Program (CRDP), funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), HELVETAS, and Welthungerhilfe (WHH), supported the organization of the International Forum and Tourism Exhibition “Khatlon - Land of Civilizations and Tourism”, held in Muminabad District of Khatlon Region on 4-5 June 2026.

The Forum took place in one of the unique historical and cultural sites of Khatlon Region of the Republic of Tajikistan - Childukhtaron, bringing together representatives of government institutions, the diplomatic corps, international organizations, the private sector, and development partners.

The Forum welcomed numerous international and domestic participants, including delegations from Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and other countries, representatives of ministries and government agencies of the Republic of Tajikistan, as well as international organizations and development partners, including the Asian Development Bank, the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA), HELVETAS, the British Embassy, the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and other international organizations.

The Forum was officially opened by Davlatali Said, Chairman of Khatlon Region and Member of the National Assembly (Majlisi Milli) of the Supreme Assembly (Majlisi Oli) of the Republic of Tajikistan.

In his address, he emphasized the importance of developing the region’s investment potential, supporting entrepreneurship, expanding international cooperation, and making effective use of Khatlon Region’s natural and tourism resources. He noted that attracting investment and implementing joint projects with international partners contribute to sustainable socio-economic development and improve the well-being of the population.

Speaking at the Forum, Ms. Sulkhiya Khaidarova, Country Director of HELVETAS Tajikistan, highlighted the contribution of the CRDP project to the sustainable development of Khatlon Region. She emphasized the importance of an integrated approach to sustainable development, particularly in strengthening human capital and preparing qualified specialists for various sectors of the economy, especially tourism, as well as creating attractive employment opportunities at both regional and district levels.

On the sidelines of the Forum, Ms. Khaidarova met with Chairman of Khatlon Region Davlatali Said. During the meeting, the parties discussed the results of ongoing cooperation and explored promising areas for future collaboration between HELVETAS Tajikistan and local government authorities of Khatlon Region.

HELVETAS will continue supporting initiatives aimed at fostering local economic development, preserving biodiversity and the region’s unique natural and cultural heritage, and strengthening resilience to climate-related challenges.