The initiative is described as the first project of its kind in the post-Soviet region.

The Blue Flag system is expected to make vacations on Issyk-Kul more comfortable and safer for tourists.

The lake has long required upgrades to its beach infrastructure to meet international standards, and Antalya’s experience as a global leader in coastal management was seen as especially relevant.

Turkish specialists shared best practices in water purification, lifeguard operations, and creating accessible facilities for people with disabilities. Azamat Zhamankulov, head of the Resorts Association of Kyrgyzstan, described the visit to Turkey as a historic step in developing the country’s tourism potential.

«Currently, no former Soviet country has an active Blue Flag program. We want to bring this vision to Kyrgyzstan. Issyk-Kul is our greatest treasure, and to preserve it while elevating it to a global level, we need to understand how these standards work in Antalya,» he said.

Antalya regularly retains its status as one of the regions with the highest number of Blue Flag-certified beaches in the world.

The Blue Flag is a prestigious international eco-label awarded to beaches, marinas, and tourism operators that meet high standards in environmental management, water quality, safety, and service. Launched in 1987, the program now operates in more than 50 countries worldwide.

The certification is granted by the Foundation for Environmental Education, an independent international organization.

A beach flying the Blue Flag must meet strict criteria, including:

High water quality with regular pollution monitoring;

Clean beach areas free of litter, with timely removal of algae and waste;

Safety measures such as lifeguards, medical assistance, and clearly marked swimming zones;

Protection of natural ecosystems and biodiversity;

Convenient infrastructure, including toilets, showers, waste-sorting bins, and accessibility for people with limited mobility;

Environmental education through public information boards about water conditions, local flora and fauna, and visitor guidelines.