Uzbekistan plans to expand its diplomatic presence in the United States and increase the number of air routes. In addition to existing missions, three new consulates will begin operating, and flight geography may expand toward California and Florida. This was reported by podrobno.uz. reports .
Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Furkat Sidikov, announced this on January 17 during a meeting with entrepreneurs. According to him, for decades Uzbekistan’s interests in the US have been represented mainly by the embassy in Washington and the Consulate General in New York.
New consulates are now planned to open in Chicago, San Francisco, and in Washington State. The plans to expand the diplomatic network were announced amid the introduction of a visa-free regime for US citizens in Uzbekistan starting in 2026.
The ambassador emphasized that Uzbekistan remains the only aviation hub in the region with direct air links to America. Currently, five flights a week operate on the New York route, and discussions are underway about launching direct flights to the US West Coast or South—toward California or Florida.
Sidikov criticized current approaches to promoting the country in the US market, calling many materials “template-based.” He advised tour operators to develop products and offers tailored to the specific needs of their audience.
As part of a new promotion strategy, Uzbekistan has begun cooperation with National Geographic. This year, the channel’s creative team is expected to visit the country and film a documentary series—the project aims to introduce Uzbekistan’s tourism brand to an international audience.
In conclusion, the ambassador noted that funds should be directed not to official events but to strong marketing, as well as to engaging influential global bloggers.
It was also reported that Uzbekistan is holding talks with the US on simplifying the visa application procedure for its citizens. The ambassador said the process will take time and largely depends on decisions by the US side.
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