Published
06/09/2026, 13:36Eduard Kubatov, head of Kyrgyzstan’s State Agency for Tourism, believes that the development of the tourism industry requires a variety of holiday options — ranging from mountain tourism to the premium hotel sector.
In his view, the arrival of international hotel chains demonstrates the country’s growing appeal to foreign visitors and investors.
“We must offer the widest possible range of services in the tourism sector. Yes, mountain tourism is developing here, with tents, hiking boots and a free-spirited lifestyle. But there is great potential for high-margin tourists who want to stay in a five-star hotel, admire the lake and enjoy the full range of tourist and hotel services,” he says.
Kubatov emphasised that the development of premium tourist infrastructure should not be seen as a departure from authentic tourism.
According to him, Kyrgyzstan is capable of simultaneously developing various types of tourism and attracting different categories of travellers.
He paid particular attention to environmental issues concerning Issyk-Kul. Kubatov believes that the main threat to the lake remains the insufficient development of sewage treatment facilities in the coastal settlements.
“The biggest problem for Issyk-Kul is the lack of sewage treatment facilities. Currently, both the government and state bodies are working to ensure that high-standard sewage treatment facilities are established in Cholpon-Ata, Bosteri and other resort areas, which will not affect the lake and its ecosystem,” — noted the director of the state agency.
According to him, the growth in tourist numbers does indeed increase the strain on infrastructure and natural resources. At the same time, he believes that the development of tourism must be accompanied by a responsible attitude towards the environment and the modernisation of public infrastructure.
“Let us show patience, let us show responsibility towards nature and towards our own country, and let us move forward together,” he concluded.
