Khankendi: Over half a million tourists visited the liberated territories of Azerbaijan this summer, marking a significant milestone for the region’s burgeoning tourism industry. An event titled ‘Public-Private Partnership and Networking in the Tourism Industry’ was held in Khankendi, supported by the State Tourism Agency and organized by the Karabakh Regional Tourism Department. The event was announced by the Public Relations Department of the Restoration, Construction, and Management Service in Khankendi city, Aghdara, and Khojaly districts.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the event saw participation from representatives of the Special Representation of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Khankendi city, Aghdara, and Khojaly districts, along with members from Karabakh University and the tourism industry. Discussions highlighted the potential for tourism development in the region, thanks to its rich natural, cultural, and historical assets. Significant restoration and construction efforts in these liberated areas have paved the way for new tourism opportunities, with new public catering facilities, hotels, and restaurants now operational.
Currently, 37 accommodation facilities are available in the Karabakh and East Zangazur economic regions, with 20 located in Khankendi. With state support, the number of these facilities is on the rise. The influx of tourists has increased significantly, with more than 500,000 visitors recorded during the summer season alone. Measures have been implemented to ensure the safety and comfort of tourists, including the ‘Our Way to Karabakh’ and ‘e-Polis’ portals, which allow citizens to obtain travel permits online.
The event also featured a panel discussion with state body representatives, focusing on the development of public-private partnerships in tourism and state support. Participants had the opportunity to ask questions and engage with the panel. Additionally, representatives from the regional tourism industry presented their activities, ongoing initiatives, future plans, and proposals, setting the stage for continued growth in the sector.