On October 20–21, at the annual meeting of the Global Tourism Forum (GTF) held in Brussels, Belgium, Azerbaijan was awarded the title of “Best Culinary Destination” in the “Destination Excellence” category.

The award was received by Rashad Aliyev, Deputy CEO of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB). At the event, the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, together with two industry partners, represented the country with the “Experience Azerbaijan” stand.

The forum brought together international tourism industry leaders, policymakers, and industry representatives to exchange views on future tourism development trends, sustainable growth, and innovation.

During the forum, meetings were held with Shaikha Al Novais, Secretary-General of the UN Tourism Executive Council, Ambassador Kubanychbek Omuraliev, Secretary-General of the Turkic States Organization Secretariat and Umid Shadiyev, Chairman of the Uzbekistan Tourism Committee.

Additionally, with the support of the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Kingdom of Belgium and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, the Belgium–Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce, and the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, a networking event dedicated to the development of Azerbaijani tourism was organized in Brussels. In his speech, Rashad Aliyev highlighted ATB’s new initiatives and ongoing activities aimed at promoting Azerbaijan’s tourism potential.

It should be noted that the Global Tourism Forum is one of the leading platforms bringing together public and private sector representatives to discuss sustainable development and future strategies for international tourism.