Baku:Azerbaijan is enhancing its ties with the Asia-Pacific tourism markets through the PATA Hosted Buyers Summit Baku 2026. This event, held in Baku on October 29, was jointly organized by the State Tourism Agency, the Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB), and the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA). It brought together local tourism businesses and over 50 tourism professionals from countries such as China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Japan, and South Korea to explore new cooperation opportunities.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Fuad Naghiyev, Chairman of the State Tourism Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, highlighted the significance of the Asia-Pacific region for Azerbaijan’s tourism sector. He noted the potential for attracting visitors and expanding international cooperation, emphasizing the opening of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board’s representative office in Beijing as a key milestone in the region. The summit was seen as a platform for creating direct industry connections and developing new business partnerships.
PATA Chairman Henry Oh stressed the summit’s role in connecting international partners with local businesses, focusing on Azerbaijan’s diverse tourism offerings. Oh stated that the summit’s theme aimed at linking Azerbaijan with key source markets across Asia-Pacific, turning the destination’s tourism potential into tangible business opportunities. He underscored the importance of knowledge exchange, industry connections, and future initiatives to strengthen Azerbaijan’s reach.
A significant outcome of the summit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Azerbaijan Tourism Board and PATA. The agreement was signed by Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO of PATA, and Florian Sengstschmid, CEO of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, in the presence of key tourism leaders. This MOU aims to increase awareness of Azerbaijan in Asia-Pacific markets, foster cooperation with tourism industry partners and media, and promote knowledge and experience exchange within the sector.
The summit also featured B2B meetings, allowing local companies and international professionals to discuss potential partnerships and develop business connections. Participants were introduced to Azerbaijan’s cultural heritage and tourism infrastructure through visits to Shamakhi, Gabala, Shaki, and Gakh, showcasing the country’s Silk Road heritage, natural landscapes, and hospitality traditions.
PATA, founded in 1951, includes over 650 members globally, including tourism authorities, airlines, and travel companies. The Azerbaijan Tourism Board has been a member since 2019.