On August 7, 2026, a public dialogue and a series of activities were held in the small meeting hall of the Muynak District Hokimiyat as part of the “Youth and Women - Permanent Ambassadors of Sustainable Tourism in Karakalpakstan” project, implemented by DMO Karakalpakstan with the support of the European Union, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, and the “Yuksalish” National Movement.

At the beginning of the programme, the DMO Karakalpakstan team visited one of the remote areas of Muynak District to explore opportunities for developing rural tourism. During the visit, the team became familiar with local rural facilities, the natural environment, and the traditional way of life, while also assessing the area’s tourism potential. It was noted that these naturally preserved areas offer opportunities for developing rural and ecotourism, as well as tourism initiatives involving local communities.

The event marked the meaningful conclusion of a series of training sessions held in June. During the trainings, young people and women from Muynak District gained practical knowledge in sustainable tourism, entrepreneurship, and the development of their own tourism initiatives. They also developed ideas aimed at contributing to the development of their local community.

Opening the meeting, M. Kosnazarov Chairman of DMO Karakalpakstan emphasized that the initiative, energy, and commitment of young people and women to their home region can become an important driving force for sustainable tourism development, the creation of new jobs, and improved well-being for local communities.

The public dialogue brought together representatives of the district hokimiyat, government institutions, tourism businesses, citizens’ self-government bodies, civil society organizations, and the media. The discussion was held in an open and constructive atmosphere, with local community representatives expressing their support for the initiatives presented.

During the meeting, participants highlighted that such projects can help unlock Muynak’s tourism potential, involve local communities more actively in tourism development, and create new opportunities for small businesses. Representatives of the local authorities, entrepreneurs, and community activists expressed their readiness to support promising initiatives and work together to turn the best ideas into real tourism products.

The presentation of business ideas developed within the project attracted particular interest. The competition winners presented their initiatives, which received positive feedback from representatives of government, business, and the local community. Participants emphasized the practical value of the proposed projects and expressed confidence that their implementation would contribute to the development of Muynak’s tourism potential, expand opportunities for young people and women, and strengthen the region’s positive image.

The programme also included a visit to the library of “Future Muynak”, located at the IT and Educational-Practical Center of Muynak District. To enrich the library’s collection, works of world literature, children’s books, and educational materials on tourism were donated. The initiative aims to encourage young people to read, broaden their knowledge, and provide additional learning opportunities in the field of tourism.

At the end of the meeting, participants emphasized the importance of continuing the cooperation that has been initiated and further strengthening partnerships between local authorities, civil society organizations, businesses, and active community members. They expressed confidence that this cooperation will create a strong foundation for new initiatives aimed at developing sustainable tourism in Muynak and Karakalpakstan, supporting local initiatives, and strengthening the region’s socio-economic potential.