Published on
October 3, 2025

In a bid to increase tourism relations between Russia and Belarus, the two nations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote tourism potential. The signing is part of the drive to increase cooperation in the tourism sector as well as enhance travel opportunities for the two countries. The MoU was inked on the sidelines of the Commonwealth Travel Hub forum in Makhachkala, capital of Russia’s Dagestan, opening a new page of the tourism cooperation between Russia and Belarus.

Belarus and Russia Join Forces for Tourism Growth

The tourism sectors of Belarus and Russia have long shared strong historical and cultural ties, but recent developments signal a renewed focus on tourism cooperation. The signing of the MoU between the Belarus-Russia Tourism Congress and the International Tourism Forum marks a major step in solidifying these ties, with a focus on fostering growth in the tourism industry for both countries.

The memorandum, signed by Yulia Zaykova, the head of the International Tourism Forum, and Filipp Guly, Chairman of the National Union of the Tourism Industry (NUTI) of Belarus, outlines a collaborative approach to promoting the tourism potential of both nations. The agreement is expected to encourage joint initiatives and projects, and enhance mutual understanding in areas such as tourism, culture, and business.

Key Provisions of the Belarus-Russia Tourism MoU

The newly signed MoU between Belarus and Russia includes several strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening the tourism relationship. A major component of the agreement is the exchange of analytical information between the two countries. This will allow for a better understanding of tourism trends, market demands, and challenges in both countries, facilitating targeted strategies for tourism growth.

The memorandum also provides for the joint organization of forums, conferences, and promotional events to increase awareness about the tourism opportunities in both Belarus and Russia. By bringing together stakeholders from government, business, educational institutions, and the media, the MoU aims to create a sustainable platform for collaboration. These events will serve as a powerful tool for promoting the diverse offerings of both countries and strengthening business ties in the tourism sector.

A Partnership to Promote the CIS Region’s Tourism

According to Yulia Zaykova, the collaboration between the Belarus and Russia tourism sectors will provide a solid foundation for future tourism initiatives in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). The MoU is seen as an essential step in promoting the tourism potential of the CIS region, which has long been a hub for cultural and natural tourism, but has often been underrepresented in the global tourism market.

Zaykova believes that this new partnership will play a key role in revitalizing the tourism industry post-pandemic. By consolidating the efforts of both countries, the agreement will facilitate better travel connections, enhanced tourism offerings, and increased visitor numbers between Belarus and Russia. This will, in turn, help attract a larger international audience to explore the diverse landscapes, cultures, and experiences that both countries offer.

Strengthening Cooperation in the Post-Pandemic World

The tourism industry, like many others, was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. With global travel restrictions, tourism revenues dropped, and countries had to adapt to new realities. However, as the world recovers from the pandemic, tourism is seen as an essential driver for economic recovery, particularly for countries like Belarus and Russia, which have significant tourism potential yet to be fully realized.

Filipp Guly emphasized that the MoU formalizes cooperation between professional platforms, which have gained renewed importance after the pandemic. The partnership aims to create synergies between tourism stakeholders in both countries, from travel agencies to hospitality providers, ensuring that visitors have access to a seamless, enjoyable experience. Additionally, the joint efforts will improve the overall competitiveness of the Belarusian and Russian tourism markets, both within the CIS region and globally.

Plans for the April Tourism Congress in Minsk

A major highlight of the Belarus-Russia tourism collaboration will be the upcoming April Tourism Congress in Minsk, Belarus. This congress is expected to serve as a major event for tourism professionals in both countries, providing a platform for networking, knowledge exchange, and the development of new partnerships. The signing of the MoU strengthens the foundation for this event, which is seen as a key opportunity for enhancing tourism cooperation.

The congress will focus on various aspects of the tourism industry, including innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation. It will also provide an opportunity to showcase Belarus and Russia’s unique cultural and natural attractions to a global audience of tourism professionals and potential visitors.

Guly stressed the importance of making the congress as effective as possible, particularly as both countries look to reignite their tourism industries in the post-pandemic era. He believes that the partnership with the Travel Hub will play a critical role in ensuring the congress is successful and that the tourism sectors of both Belarus and Russia continue to evolve and adapt to global trends.

Impact on Tourists and Travel Opportunities

For travelers, the MoU represents a growing number of opportunities for exploration between Belarus and Russia. The collaboration will likely result in more coordinated travel initiatives, such as joint promotional campaigns, travel packages, and cross-border tourism activities. This will make it easier for tourists to explore both countries in a seamless and more accessible manner.

Belarus and Russia are both rich in cultural history and natural beauty, offering a wide range of attractions for different types of travelers. Belarus boasts stunning national parks, medieval castles, and vibrant cities, while Russia’s vast expanse includes iconic landmarks such as Moscow’s Red Square, St. Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum, and the rugged beauty of Siberia.

As the Belarus-Russia tourism partnership develops, tourists can expect a more integrated and streamlined travel experience. Whether it’s a cultural tour, an adventure holiday, or a wellness retreat, the expanded collaboration between the two nations will enhance the diversity of experiences available to travelers.

A New Era of Belarus-Russia Tourism

The MoU signing between Russia and Belarus is an important milestone in enhancing and promoting tourism between the two nations. Through increased cooperation, the two countries stand to establish a more robust, resilient tourism sector that not only profits the national economies but also the global traveler.

With the forthcoming Tourism Congress in Minsk and the grouping of tourism platforms, this union is poised to be a major impetus for the development of Belarus and Russia as leading holiday destinations. Through the partnership, the two nations can increase their international appeal, draw more visitors, and promote sustainable tourism for the future.