Azerbaijan–South Korea ties: Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov met Korea’s deputy foreign minister, focusing on cooperation across politics, trade, investment, transport, digital development, education and energy security, with both sides highlighting Azerbaijan’s role on the Middle Corridor and upcoming CICA dialogue under Azerbaijan’s chairmanship. Mining & tourism links with Uzbekistan: Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan signed agreements in Tashkent to jointly develop an Uzbek gold deposit and expand cooperation in mining, banking and tourism, with AzerGold named as a key partner. IsDB in Baku: At the Islamic Development Bank Annual Meetings, Azerbaijan’s Economy Minister said over 80% of strategic mineral reserves are concentrated in the liberated territories, which are being developed as “green development zones” with mining plus agriculture, tourism, logistics and transport. New flight momentum: Azerbaijan Airlines launched its first direct flight between Baku and Shymkent, while Qatar Airways announced a major Summer 2026 network expansion that restores/launches service to 160+ destinations including Baku. Border tourism opening in Korea: South Korea plans to ease access restrictions along the DPRK border, shifting the controlled access line north and potentially opening areas for private development and tourism. Travel disruption watch: Azerbaijan Railways’ Baku–Tbilisi train is back, but return ticket sales appear halted and affordable fares sell out fast. Sports travel hook: Derry City fans are preparing for a Europa League qualifier trip to Sofia, with CSKA Sofia as the draw.