CAREC and the Global Silk Road: Connecting Regions through Tourism
At the Sideline of 2026 ADB Annual Meeting
Tourism is emerging as one of the most dynamic drivers of cross-border connectivity and shared prosperity across the CAREC region. As the modern Silk Road regains global attention, CAREC countries are uniquely positioned to leverage their rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and deep historical linkages to attract a growing number of international travelers. With demand rising for deeper cultural engagement and multi-country journeys, the region has an opportunity to reposition itself as a tourism corridor connecting Central Asia, the Caucasus, East Asia, and South Asia to Europe and beyond.
Building on improvements in air and land transport connectivity, streamlined visa regimes, and the rapid rise of digital travel platforms, the CAREC region is well placed to create seamless, multi-destination itineraries that connect its cultural hubs, UNESCO sites, natural wonders, and emerging urban attractions. Realizing this potential, however, requires coordinated policies, harmonized standards, and public–private sector collaboration.
Objectives
- Position CAREC region as a global tourism corridor
- Leverage Silk Road heritage and modern connectivity to create a regional brand
- Align with ADB priorities on regional cooperation and public goods, digital transformation, and private sector development to promote regional tourism
At the sideline of the CAREC session, ADB and UN Tourism signed a Letter of Intent to pursue regional cooperation on tourism in the CAREC region and beyond.
Event Materials