On September 6, Teimuraz Khishba, the separatist Abkhazia's de facto Minister of Tourism, emphasized that tourism is one of the most crucial and prioritized sectors in modernizing the country's economy. 

Khishba highlighted that Abkhazia's tourism sector has several competitive advantages, primarily due to its favorable natural conditions. Even the summary indicators of the tourism industry show a strong positive trend in its development, he stated.

According to Khishba, the tourism industry now faces a new challenge: internationalization. This is particularly significant, as many tour operators increasingly consider Abkhazia an effective alternative to destinations like Cyprus, Turkey, and others.

"Abkhazia is truly a tourist find. However, for the industry to reach its full potential, it is essential for the international community to be more aware of the region's tourism infrastructure," Khishba emphasized. He further noted that efforts should not be limited to repatriates from Turkey but should extend to other countries in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.

The focus is not only on expanding the geography of tourists but also on developing dynamic and efficient tools further to accelerate the growth of Abkhazia's tourism sector. According to Khishba, creating conditions that offer long-term benefits in a short time is critical, and this requires the adoption of non-traditional approaches and resources.

"As we understand, capital inflow is the most effective means to stimulate economic activity in any industry. It is the competent and innovative use of this capital that could drive the development of the tourism sector in Abkhazia," Khishba affirmed.

He also stressed that infrastructure modernization in Abkhazia, particularly regarding air transport and overall logistics, would significantly boost the tourism industry. Khishba recalled that Sukhumi airport was once one of the best in the Soviet Union and could accommodate two of the largest aircraft of that era, the "Ruslan." Reopening the airport could multiply tourist arrivals in eastern Abkhazia and increase budget revenues, which would, in turn, improve the quality of life for the local population. Many people, he pointed out, are currently forced to move to cities like Gagra to seek additional income. Reopening the airport would allow many to return to their native lands.

"It is important to note that Russia has always been and remains Abkhazia's main strategic partner. We highly value this cooperation and are always ready to offer the most favorable conditions for Russian investments," Khishba stated. He also welcomed potential partners from the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, stating that attracting international investors from these regions could further contribute to modernizing Abkhazia’s tourism infrastructure, allowing it to meet international standards.

Regarding investment, Khishba pointed out the effectiveness of "people's diplomacy" and networking as tools for attracting the necessary capital. He emphasized that communication through these channels could lead to breakthroughs in investment efforts, with investor funds being properly utilized. Furthermore, he suggested that increased investment activity in the region would create international media attention, which would further promote Abkhazia's tourism sector on a global scale.