She was joined by Kazakh representatives of Alpine skiing, ski jumping and cross-country, with her tour starting at the Sunkar Ski Jumping Complex in Almaty.

Lewis also attended the Alpine skiing resort at Shymbulak and the Medeu Skating Rink, as well as the Kazakhstan National Olympic Committee headquarters. 

"The Sunkar ski jumping venue and Shymbulak ski resort are outstanding facilities," said Lewis. 

"The vicinity to Almaty city centre, high altitude with extensive snowfall in the mountains and their natural landscape make it a promising destination for hosting world-class competitions and the development of tourism."

Almaty entered the race for the 2022 Winter Olympics and Paralympics, losing out 44-40 in a two-horse race with Chinese capital Beijing.

Many were surprised that the vote was as close as it was.

The city also hosted this year's Winter Universiade in January and February.

"The importance of the development cannot be emphasised as we foster the next generation of athletes in Kazakhstan," said Askar Valiyev, the secretary general of the Kazakhstan Ski Association.

"The venue, with its storied traditions, will be a national role model for years to come. 

"Increasingly, kids are learning to ski or snowboard and we could not be more thrilled."

Lewis also met with Kazakhstan's Minister of Culture and Sport Arystanbek Mukhamediuly during her visit.