“Tourism is one of priority directions of economy development in our republic, therefore I consider it very important to hold such events.

Abkhazia is famous for hospitality, we are glad to communicate, to have new acquaintances, we are open for constructive cooperation, ” President said.

He expressed confidence that there will be discussed topical industry issues within the forum.

According to President, the main task is to develop comprehensive measures and modern approaches to improve the quality of tourism services provided in Abkhazia and development of entrepreneurial initiative.

Ensuring the safety of guests is equally important.

“In this regard, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and special services are taking all the necessary measures. The personnel have been transferred to an enhanced mode of work, ” the head of state emphasized.

The spread of coronavirus infection has not spared Abkhazia. Last year, the tourist season was significantly reduced, it began only on August 1 and it negatively affected economic indicators.

“However, we were able to build an effective system to combat this disease in close cooperation with colleagues from the Russian Federation. Increased sanitary and epidemiological requirements are applied to all participants in economic activity. It is important to remember that compliance with these requirements is the main obstacle to the spread of coronavirus infection, ” said Aslan Bzhania.

Abkhazia has great potential in terms of transport infrastructure development. President informed that issues related to the restoration of the Sukhum airport are being resolved in active cooperation with the relevant structures of the Russian Federation.

“With a high degree of probability, the airport will start accepting the first flights by January 2024,” President said.

The leadership of Abkhazia pays special attention to creating favorable conditions for investment in the tourism sector of the economy.

“The road is open for business and a certain positive experience has already been gained. I believe that the executive and legislative authorities are able to provide entrepreneurs with protection and various preferences, taking into account the balance of interests of the state and business, ” Bzhania said.