The Global Tourism Forum 2025, which gathered leading figures from the tourism industry, international experts, and business representatives from more than 50 countries, served as one of the most significant international platforms for dialogue on the future of sustainable tourism, innovation, and cross-border cooperation in the post-pandemic era.
During the forum, Azerbaijan was named the “Best Culinary Destination” in the Destination Excellence category by The World Tourism Awards Jury. This recognition highlights Azerbaijan’s growing global reputation for its rich culinary heritage and diverse gastronomic experiences, which beautifully reflect the country’s cultural depth and regional diversity according to Azerbaijan Tourism Board.
Receiving the award on behalf of Azerbaijan Tourism Board, Rashad Aliyev, Deputy CEO of ATB, stated: “We’re especially proud that during this forum, Azerbaijan was named the ‘Best Culinary Destination’ in the Destination Excellence category. This recognition means a lot to us because our cuisine truly reflects who we are — diverse, creative, and deeply connected to our land and traditions.”
Following its recognition as “Best Culinary Destination” at the World Tourism Awards 2025, held during the Global Tourism Forum in Brussels, Azerbaijan once again captured the spotlight with an exclusive event — “Azerbaijan: An Emerging Tourism Destination,” hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Kingdom of Belgium and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.
This year’s forum also welcomed prominent international participants such as Kubanychbek Omuraliyev, Secretary-General of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS); Sherif Fathi Attia, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities of Egypt; Umid Shadiev, Chairman of the Tourism Committee of Uzbekistan; Abulfaz Garayev, Former Minister of Culture and Tourism of Azerbaijan; Dimitris Avramopoulos, Member of the Hellenic Parliament and former EU Commissioner; Jean-Jacques Morin, Group Deputy CEO of Accor; Didier Mazenga Mukanzu, Minister of Tourism of the Democratic Republic of Congo; Shaikha Al Nowais, Secretary-General Elect of the United Nations Tourism; and Ozgul Ozkan Yavuz, Board Member of Turkish Airlines and former Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism of Türkiye (2019–2023).
Ambassador Vaqif Sadiqov (pictured) delivered an inspiring opening speech, welcoming distinguished guests and underlining Azerbaijan’s growing role as a vibrant and diverse tourism hub connecting East and West.
In his address, Mr. Rashad Aliyev, Deputy CEO of the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, noted that since its establishment, the Board has been dedicated to presenting Azerbaijan’s story to the world in a modern and engaging way — through international roadshows, exhibitions, and partnerships with global industry leaders. He also emphasized the importance of building lasting cooperation with travel experts, journalists, and influencers who experience Azerbaijan firsthand.
The evening highlighted Azerbaijan’s cultural depth, scenic diversity, and culinary mastery, concluding with a delightful tasting experience that perfectly reflected the country’s new global recognition as Best Culinary Destination of 2025.
The Global Tourism Forum 2025 not only reaffirmed its status as a premier platform for shaping the future of sustainable and innovative tourism, but also spotlighted Azerbaijan’s rising prominence on the global travel map. Being honored as the “Best Culinary Destination” by the World Tourism Awards underscores the country’s rich gastronomic heritage and its ability to captivate international audiences through culture, flavor, and hospitality. The exclusive event hosted in Brussels further demonstrated Azerbaijan’s commitment to positioning itself as a dynamic tourism hub — bridging East and West, tradition and innovation. With strengthened ties to Central Asia and a growing network of global partnerships, Azerbaijan is poised to become a leading destination for travelers seeking authentic and diverse experiences.
Bibliography,
Azerbaijan – Best culinary Destination – https://eureflect.com
Caspian news, Azerbaijan Eyes Central Asian Tourists to Expand Tourism Sector – Caspian News
