Senator sees Irish cooperation on the roof of the world

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Tajikistan is a magical destination for the pioneering tourist Irish Senator Fiona O’Malley, discovered on assignment with VSO

A steadily increasing trickle of curious travellers are adventuring into the dramatic unspoilt mountain-scape and Silk Road heritage of Tajikistan.  Senator O’Malley’s volunteer placement with The State Committee for Youth Affairs, Sports and Tourism is helping raise awareness of tourism as a key source of economic opportunity for vulnerable communities, and increasing Tajikistan’s profile amongst potential overseas visitors.  

During her visit The Senator has supported state employees charged with tourism development to work closely with other government departments and the private sector, and nurture the growth of tourism in Zerafshan Valley.   

So far, 2010 has been a good year for tourism development in Tajikistan.  President Rahmon’s high profile statements have prioritised tourism development.  In July the 4th Millennium BCE site of Sarazm (literally, ‘where the world begins’), became the first of Tajikistan’s ancient sites to make it onto the UNESCO World Heritage List.  

World Tourism Day in September will see the launch of Tajikistan’s national tourism website and brand, at its first ever national tourism conference.

Senator O’Malley is one of nine Parliamentarians participating in the Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) scheme, through which politicians share their policy development and lobbying skills, at the request of partner organisations in countries where VSO operates.   The Senator served in the lower Parliament and as a local councillor before being appointed by The Prime Minister of The Republic of Ireland to the country’s Senate in 2007.  

Captivated by Central Asia since the collapse of the former Soviet Union, The Senator sees great potential for co-operation between The Republic of Ireland and Tajikistan.  ‘There are lots of similarities between the evolution of the Tajik and Irish economies.  

Tajikistan could learn from Ireland’s experience – several decades ago tourism played a marginal role in our economy.  Today it is one of the main sources of national income.  Both countries also share a reputation for hospitality and have great natural beauty.’

Speaking about Tajikistan’s tourism potential, Senator O’Malley said, ‘Tourism is a great tool for economic independence. Here in Tajikistan you have the raw materials in abundance: the most incredible mountain scenery I have ever seen and lots of authentic opportunities to experience local life and culture.  Tourists can visit rural and isolated communities directly,  reducing the challenge of getting products to markets, faced by other economic spheres.’ ‘Tajikistan is surprisingly accessible from Europe and The State Committee on Tourism already made the visa process simpler for tourists.  Crime levels are also very low.’

The Senator is VSO’s third specialist advising on tourism development.  The charity will support economic development through tourism by placing at least three more tourism specialists in Zerafshan Valley and The Pamirs over the coming year.  

Valere Tjolle

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Valere Tjolle is editor of the Sustainable Tourism Report Suitewww.travelmole.com/stories/1143624.php