The first International Forum of Urban Studies "Territory of the FutureA look from the heart of Eurasia”has just ended in the congress hall "Toratau" in Ufa. More than 30 prominent experts presented the experience of effective projects for the improvement and development of Russian cities, as well as international cases, including in the tourism industry.
Within the framework of the forum, Head of the Republic Radiy Khabirov, Minister of Construction, Housing and Utilities of the Russian Federation Vladimir Yakushev, Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation Valery Falkov, Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Irina Yarovaya, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection of the Russian Federation Olga Batalina and other guests examined the exhibition stand of the geopark "Toratau".
Before the plenary session, a presentation of the Toratau geopark took place.
“On every territory, in every nation there are objects that are of great importance in themselves, represent a kind of reflection of the connection of times, the connection of the people with their history, culture, nature. Toratau is just such an object, - said Radiy Khabirov. - This project is very important for our republic. I am sure that it has great potential, being of interest not only for our country, but for the whole world. And we hope that the ambitious plans that we have will definitely come true.”
Within the framework of the forum, a round table called "Toratau - the flagship of the development of unique natural areas." was held. The participants discussed the tools for attracting investments in natural parks and territories, the role of small business in the development of hospitality infrastructure.
“Currently, domestic tourism has a huge potential, Bashkiria has all the prerequisites to open new brands in the region. They could be Sakaska Cave, Mount Iremel, as well as infrastructure facilities - Shikhan Toratau and Kinderlinskaya Cave, - noted Olga Zakharova, Deputy Director General of ASI.”
The principles of sustainable development for geoparks and the importance of international expert support were voiced by Nicholas Zouros, President of the Executive Council of the Global Geoparks Network (Greece). He cited successful examples of geoparks in Germany, China, Italy, Japan and other countries:
“We have developed and adhere to 17 sustainable development goals. Protecting our planet is important and geoparks help us reconnect with nature and our Earth. ”
The participants also discussed the concept of the Toratau geopark with representatives of the international scientific community.
Ainur Samanov, General Director of the Toratau geopark, said that the area of the Geopark is more than 4500 sq. km. and includes 155 natural sites. They are located on the territory of four districts of the republic (Sterlitamakskiy, Gafuriyskiy, Ishimbayskiy, Meleuzovskiy). Geoparks make it possible to develop territories without disturbing their safety, while at the same time paying great attention to educational programs, the involvement of the local population, the development of partnerships with entrepreneurs, the scientific community, international experts, and tour operators. He also noted that a nomination dossier is currently being prepared for the inclusion of the Toratau Geopark in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network.
Natalia Lukashina, project manager for the creation of the Toratau Geopark, noted that the true wealth of the Geopark is people who help to preserve the natural, historical and cultural heritage:
“The design principle that we took as a basis is the involvement of local residents and entrepreneurs. During the quarantine, we met and exchanged ideas online and, as a result, formed a number of decisions on the location of tourist centers, camping, taking into account the principles of identity comfort and rationality. ”
For additional questions, please contact:
Ekaterina Kirillova, PR Specialist, Toratau geopark
тел: +7(917)361-23-53, эл.почта: toratau.geopark@gmail.com
