The Essence of Agroecotourism and Its Role in The Development of Rural Areas of Uzbekistan

The article examines the essence of agroecotourism and its role in the socio-economic development of rural areas of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The content of the concepts of "agro-tourism," "ecological tourism," and "rural tourism" is revealed, and the need for their comprehensive consideration in the context of sustainable development of the regions is substantiated. Special attention is paid to agroecotourism as a promising direction for diversifying the agricultural economy, based on the rational use of natural, cultural, and socio-historical resources of rural areas. The main factors influencing the development of agroecotourism, including socio-economic, economic-geographical, natural-climatic, organizational, and social factors, were analyzed. The conditions and prerequisites for the effective functioning of agroecotourism, as well as its significance for the state, rural areas, and tourists, have been determined. The conclusion was made that the development of agroecotourism contributes to the growth of employment, improvement of the living standards of the rural population, preservation of cultural heritage, and the formation of sustainable demand for local goods and services.