An Azerbaijani delegation participated in a significant international tourism event in Jalal-Abad, Kyrgyzstan, in September 2025 under the direction of Kenan Guluzade, Advisor to the Chairman of the State Tourism Agency. Representatives from the Member and Observer States of the Organisation of Turkic States (OTS), a forum created to promote collaboration and development among Turkic-speaking countries, convened at the International Tourism Forum and seminar. This event gave nations a great chance to talk and exchange their tourism-related successes and tactics.
The forum's goal was very clear: to promote environmentally conscious, inclusive, and sustainable tourism. This was a great chance for Azerbaijan to highlight its ongoing efforts that are leading the world in encouraging eco-friendly travel strategies that strike a balance between the need for economic expansion and environmental conservation.
Azerbaijan, known for its rich cultural history and diverse landscapes, has long recognised the potential of tourism to be a cornerstone of its national economy. Tourism in Azerbaijan is growing rapidly, with the sector emerging as one of the most dynamic contributors to the country's GDP. However, the government is focused not only on increasing tourist numbers but also on ensuring that tourism development is sustainable and benefits both visitors and local communities.
Kenan Guluzade, representing Azerbaijan at the forum, emphasised that tourism is evolving as a central part of the national economy. His remarks highlighted the importance of integrating sustainability into the tourism sector, particularly as more travellers seek out experiences that minimise environmental impact. Azerbaijan's initiatives have become models for other nations, particularly in the context of the Organisation of Turkic States.
Azerbaijan's approach to sustainable tourism is multi-faceted, focusing on preserving its natural beauty, promoting ecotourism, and reducing the environmental footprint of tourism activities. Here are some of the key initiatives:
To diversify the nation's tourism offerings, Azerbaijan has embarked on the creation of new tourist routes that showcase not only the well-known historical landmarks but also the country's breathtaking landscapes. From the Caspian Sea to the Caucasus Mountains, these routes allow visitors to explore Azerbaijan's diverse ecosystems, making it an attractive destination for adventure tourists. By promoting rural and less-explored areas, Azerbaijan is also distributing the benefits of tourism more evenly across the country, alleviating the pressures on popular tourist hubs.
Azerbaijan has placed a strong emphasis on the development of ecotourism, which is seen as an essential way to both attract tourists and protect the environment. Ecotourism projects allow visitors to experience the country's natural beauty while promoting conservation efforts. The goal is to protect fragile ecosystems, preserve biodiversity, and create awareness among travellers about the importance of nature conservation. One example includes protected areas such as Gobustan National Park, home to ancient rock carvings and diverse wildlife, which attract tourists while preserving the region's natural heritage.
As part of its commitment to reducing environmental pollution, Azerbaijan has taken active steps to reduce plastic waste within the tourism industry. By introducing waste management initiatives, the government aims to eliminate single-use plastics, increase recycling efforts, and promote eco-friendly alternatives. These efforts are in alignment with the broader objectives of the Global Tourism Plastics Initiative, which Azerbaijan has supported since its inception. Educational campaigns are also targeting local businesses and tourists to encourage sustainable practices, such as minimising plastic usage during their travels.
Azerbaijan's involvement in global environmental issues was underscored when the country hosted the 29th UN Climate Change Conference (COP29). The conference highlighted the urgency of addressing climate change and the role of tourism in both contributing to and mitigating environmental impact. During COP29, Azerbaijan led discussions on how the tourism sector could become a significant player in climate action.
One of the key outcomes of the conference was the adoption of the "COP29 Declaration on Enhanced Climate Action in the Tourism Sector". This declaration calls for sustainable tourism practices that reduce the carbon footprint of travel and tourism operations. Azerbaijan played a pivotal role in this agreement, which has now been endorsed by many countries, positioning it as a global leader in promoting climate-conscious tourism practices. The declaration encourages member states of the Organisation of Turkic States, among others, to adopt sustainable tourism practices and to engage in international cooperation to reduce the negative environmental impacts of tourism.
At the forum, Guluzade called on OTS member states to work together more closely to foster regional cooperation in sustainable tourism. By sharing best practices, engaging in joint tourism projects, and coordinating efforts to tackle common challenges, these countries could help strengthen the tourism sector across the Turkic-speaking world. The Advisor to the Chairman emphasised that cooperation among the member states would enhance the collective ability to promote tourism that benefits both the economy and the environment.
Guluzade's call for collaboration was not just theoretical. He proposed creating joint initiatives, such as those focused on adventure tourism, which could enhance the attractiveness of the Turkic world as a whole. The Turkic region is rich in natural beauty and adventure opportunities, from trekking in the vast steppes of Kazakhstan to mountaineering in the Caucasus. By developing adventure tourism in a responsible and sustainable manner, the region can position itself as a prime destination for eco-conscious travellers seeking unique and challenging outdoor experiences.
The forum concluded with a seminar on the development of adventure tourism within the OTS. This seminar brought together experts, government officials, and tourism operators to discuss the potential for adventure tourism in the region. As adventure tourism continues to grow in popularity, there is a significant opportunity for the Turkic states to develop this niche by offering a variety of experiences, such as hiking, cycling, and wildlife tours, while ensuring that environmental protection remains a priority.
Azerbaijan's dedication to advancing sustainable tourism was demonstrated by its attendance at the OTS International Tourism Forum in Kyrgyzstan. Azerbaijan is leading by example in the region and beyond with its creative ecotourism initiatives and proactive involvement in global climate action. It sets an example for how countries can welcome tourism growth while keeping an eye on the environment thanks to its leadership in sustainable tourism.
It is critical that nations like Azerbaijan continue to take the lead in promoting ethical, sustainable tourism practices as the industry expands globally. This enhances the tourism industry as a major engine of economic growth and guarantees the conservation of the environment and cultural heritage for future generations.