Azerbaijan is now the official destination partner of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), a key membership that will strengthen its network and foster deeper connections among leaders of both public and private sectors.
Being the largest global private sector travel and tourism network, WTTC is on a mission to maximize the inclusive and sustainable growth potential of the sector by partnering with governments across the world.
By joining the WTTC, Azerbaijan has positioned its tourism sector at the forefront of its economy. The WTTC membership has enabled Azerbaijan to encompass the entire supply chain of global travel and tourism, which includes engagement with stakeholders committed to sustainability and technology in travel.
Additionally, Azerbaijan has also joined the WTTC’s Hostel Sustainability Basics (‘Basics’) partnership. This partnership involves a globally recognized and coordinated set of sustainability indicators that all hotels are encouraged to implement as a minimum standard.
Developed by industry for the industry, they represent the 12 actions that are fundamental to hotel sustainability. Being a premier partner of basics, Azerbaijan aims to follow the criteria set by WTTC to raise the bottom floor of sustainability in the sector.
As a destination partner, Azerbaijan is made its debut appearance at the WTTC Global Summit in Kigali, Rwanda (November 1-3) themed “Building Bridges to a Sustainable Future”. The delegation includes Fuad Naghiyev, Chairman of the State Tourism Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
The development of tourism experiences in Azerbaijan, follows the strategy that drives regional growth. The recent inscription of Khinalig and the ‘Köç Yolu’ Transhumance Route to the UNESCO list further highlights Azerbaijan’s commitment to preserving its rich cultural and natural heritage, a statement said.
Sustainability has been a big part of Azerbaijan’s tourism strategy which led to the development of many eco-friendly experiences such as birdwatching and hiking, preservation of local products and age-old cooking methods within the framework of Slow Food Travel, as well as protection of touristic sites through sustainable heritage management.
The development of the local wine industry established Azerbaijan as one of the thriving centers of viticulture in the region for which it was honored by the Council of Europe and the European Institute of Cultural Routes.
In Azerbaijan is home to a wide range of modern amenities, such as world-class hotels, upscale restaurants, and shopping centers. It boasts a wealth of attractions, including the UNESCO-listed Old City of Baku, the Caucasus Mountains, the Caspian Sea, and the ancient Silk Road.
