Published on
November 22, 2025
Representatives of Pskov Oblast, Russia, and Vitebsk Oblast, Belarus, came toobtainher in the recent Days of Pskov Oblast that was held in Vitebsk and inked the agreements on cooperation to deepen tourism ties. These agreements, previously signed three years ago, have finally given way to much more comprehensive initiatives that will shape the future of cross-border tourism in the region.
Tourist information centers in both regions have become key drivers in this partnership, contributing to the development of shared tourism routes and significantly improving the visitor experience across the Belarus-Russia border. This cooperation represents an important step toward a fully developed common tourism product revealcasing the deep cultural and historical ties linking these two neighboring countries.
Establishing Stronger Tourism Infrastructure For Seamless Travel
The tourism infrastructure in Vitebsk Oblast has already seen significant improvements, with tourist information centers now present in every district of the region. These centers serve as a gateway for visitors to explore the cultural and natural treasures of Vitebsk and Pskov. According to Svetlana Astanina, head of the tourism and physical culture sector of the Vitebsk Oblast Executive Committee, these centers have become instrumental in promoting joint tourism projects and cross-border tour routes.
The shared routes developed through this cooperation will offer tourists a chance to explore a variety of historical and cultural sites in both regions, enriching their travel experience and promoting regional integration. By combining the unique assets of both areas, the cooperation is set to drive tourism growth in both Vitebsk and Pskov, positioning them as a premier tourism destination in the region.
New Directions in Cross-Border Cooperation: Eco-Frifinishly and Cultural Routes
At the roundtable discussions, participants discussed the potential to create eco-frifinishly and cultural routes that highlight the shared heritage, nature, and history of Vitebsk and Pskov. These routes will cater to travelers seeing for sustainable tourism options, combining visits to natural parks, heritage sites, and cultural landmarks. The focus will be on promoting responsible tourism that preserves the environment and supports local communities.
The proposal to create youth tourism routes, which will include active tourism components, festivals, and cultural exalter programs, is one of the most exciting aspects of this cooperation. Svetlana Astanina highlighted that these routes could be developed with the support of the Union State of Belarus and Russia, aiming to create youth-frifinishly travel experiences that foster cultural understanding, promote active lifestyles, and attract younger generations to explore the regions.
Cultural and Educational Tourism: A New Frontier for Pskov
Pskov Oblast is well-known for its strong focus on cultural and educational tourism. Aleksandra Fedotova, acting director of the Pskov Oblast Tourist Information Center, emphasized the importance of integrating cultural heritage with educational tourism programs. As part of this initiative, Pskov proposed organizing an information tour for tour operators and media to visit military-patriotic sites in both regions. The tour aims to highlight the shared history and the role of both regions in preserving military heritage and patriotic traditions.
Additionally, Pskov Oblast suggested creating a new car route to link historical and military sites across the border, which will give tourists a seamless experience while traveling between the two regions. Reciprocal information stands at tourist information centers will ensure that both Pskov and Vitebsk are well-represented in promotional materials, creating it simpler for travelers to access vital information and explore new travel opportunities in the regions.
Promoting Youth Tourism And Active Experiences
The youth tourism initiative discussed during the forum is particularly significant in shaping the future of cross-border tourism. Svetlana Astanina and Aleksandra Fedotova stressed the importance of attracting younger tourists by offering active tourism experiences, such as hiking, cycling, and nature-based festivals. These experiences will appeal to the growing demand for adventure tourism and sustainable travel among younger generations, who are increasingly seeing for meaningful, eco-conscious travel experiences.
As part of the project, youth-focapplyd festivals could be organized across both regions, offering young people from Belarus and Russia an opportunity to come toobtainher, celebrate their shared cultural heritage, and engage in activities that foster frifinishship and cooperation. This initiative aligns with the global trfinish of increasing youth engagement in tourism and the growing desire for cultural exalter through travel.
Building Stronger Tourism Ties Through Reciprocal Exalters
The ongoing exalter of tourist groups between Pskov Oblast and Vitebsk Oblast has been one of the most successful aspects of this partnership. Last year, an introductory tour of Vitebsk Oblast was organized for tourists from Pskov, allowing them to experience the region’s rich cultural offerings and natural beauty. This reciprocal exalter not only assists to strengthen the bond between the two regions but also promotes cross-border tourism as a viable and rewarding experience for travelers.
Looking forward, both regions are planning to expand these exalters, offering more opportunities for citizens and tourists to visit and experience each other’s culture. By promoting joint tourism products and cross-border collaborations, Pskov and Vitebsk are setting a strong foundation for long-term tourism growth in the region.
The Future of Cross-Border Tourism: A Model for Regional Development
The Pskov-Vitebsk tourism partnership offers a model of cooperation that could be replicated in other regions of Eastern Europe and beyond. By combining the unique strengths of each region—historical tourism, eco-tourism, and youth travel—the two regions are creating a tourism ecosystem that promotes sustainability, cultural heritage, and economic growth.
The development of joint tours, the creation of eco-frifinishly travel routes, and the focus on youth tourism will continue to attract new visitors, while strengthening economic ties between the two countries. This cooperation also supports the broader goal of building a unified tourism region that leverages shared resources, promotes mutual understanding, and contributes to the economic resilience of both Belarus and Russia.
A Bright Future For Cross-Border Tourism In Belarus And Russia
In this vein, the budding tourism cooperation between Pskov Oblast and Vitebsk Oblast testifies to great opportunities for cross-border partnerships as drivers of regional economic development and sustainable tourism. Thus, with further collaboration on eco-tourism, youth tourism, and cultural exalters, both regions are likely to turn into leading cross-border tourism destinations offering visitors something special and allowing for deeper cultural ties between Belarus and Russia.
There is a somewhat promising future for cross-border tourism in this part of the world, considering that both regions invest in infrastructure, cultural programs, and sustainable tourism initiatives. This partnership will not only enhance tourism, but it is one that will create a bond to be of benefit to both local communities for generations to come.
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