AGP Executive Report

Eid al-Adha Travel & Greetings: The U.S. Embassy in Azerbaijan and President Ilham Aliyev shared Eid al-Adha messages, highlighting compassion, unity and Azerbaijan’s religious tolerance—useful for travelers planning holiday visits. China Tourism Push: Azerbaijan Tourism Board events in Xi’an, Shanghai and Beijing, plus ITB China 2026, promoted Azerbaijan as a “Must-Visit Destination” and signed an MoU with Trip.com to boost year-round Chinese travel. New Air Link: AZAL will launch a direct Shymkent–Baku route from June 16, 2026 (twice weekly), strengthening regional travel and business ties. Regional Rail Update: Georgia’s deputy minister says Baku–Tbilisi train resumption should boost mutual tourist flows; Azerbaijan’s migration service also issued guidance for foreign passengers on the route. Baku Airport Throughput: Heydar Aliyev International Airport handled 194,793 passengers during WUF13 (May 15–24), with extra transport and service measures to keep travel smooth. Holiday Food Event: Shamakhi’s International Barbecue Festival returns June 13–14, spotlighting international culinary tourism. Baggage Tips: AZAL shared practical guidance for delayed, lost or damaged baggage, including filing a PIR at arrival.

Rail Corridor Momentum: Kazakhstan is pushing a $10bn rail freight expansion by 2030, with long-term locomotive deals and a bigger role for the Trans-Caspian route—key for cargo moving China–Europe via Georgia, Azerbaijan and Turkey. Baku–Tbilisi Travel Boost: Passenger rail between Baku and Tbilisi is back after years of disruption, with the first departures logged May 26 and demand reported as strong; Azerbaijan’s migration service also reminded foreign travelers of registration rules. WUF13 Spotlight: Heydar Aliyev International Airport handled nearly 200,000 passengers during the World Urban Forum period, keeping operations running smoothly. Diplomacy & Tourism Links: Georgia’s deputy economy minister says renewed Baku–Tbilisi trains will lift mutual tourist flows, while Azerbaijan and Cuba discussed expanding cooperation in economy, investment, tourism and healthcare. Eid al-Adha: President Ilham Aliyev shared Eid al-Adha greetings as Azerbaijan marks the holiday with five days off.

Rail comeback for travelers: After a six-year gap, the Baku–Tbilisi–Baku passenger train is back, with the first service arriving in Tbilisi and daily departures using modern Stadler sleeping-carriages. Migration reminders: Azerbaijan’s State Migration Service says foreigners on the route must follow local rules—register if staying over 15 days, and keep visa-free stays within 90 days (with a separate 90-day-in-a-year limit for Russians). WUF13 travel boost: Heydar Aliyev International Airport handled nearly 200,000 passengers during the World Urban Forum period (194,793 from May 15–24), running enhanced coordination and transport links. Diplomacy & holidays: Azerbaijan marked Independence Day abroad with receptions in Algeria and Belarus, while Ilham Aliyev sent Eid al-Adha and Georgia Independence Day congratulations. Regional context: Armenia’s PM Pashinyan says the “300,000 Azerbaijanis” return topic is closed ahead of June 7 elections.

Rail Revival: After a six-year gap, the Baku–Tbilisi passenger train is back, using modern Stadler carriages and departing at 23:10 Baku time—another practical boost for South Caucasus travel. Independence Day Diplomacy: Azerbaijan marked May 28 Independence Day with official receptions abroad, including in Muscat (Oman) and New York, where the Azerbaijani Jewish community and diaspora partners highlighted shared history and tolerance. Regional Partnerships: Azerbaijan also spotlighted growing ties with Kuwait, citing rising tourism (32,000 Kuwaiti visitors in 2025) and deeper cooperation across trade and investment. Eid Travel & Local Prep: Eid al-Adha is set for May 27 in Azerbaijan, with state-declared non-working days and mosque prayer times confirmed. Agriculture Focus: President Ilham Aliyev chaired a meeting on agricultural development, stressing how earlier regional infrastructure upgrades helped revive the sector. Religion Watch: The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom released its 2025 report, placing Azerbaijan on a special watch list over restrictions on religious activity.

Azerbaijan–Oman Ties: Azerbaijan’s embassy in Muscat is helping push faster growth in trade, transport and logistics, with visa-free arrangements for diplomats and special passport holders adding momentum. Eid al-Adha in Azerbaijan: The Caucasus Muslims Office says Eid prayers will be held on May 27, with animal sacrifice starting the same day and continuing for three days. Culture & Tourism: Leyla Aliyeva visited Masalli’s mat-weaving community, backing the “Rooted Hands” project to create a renovated workshop-and-sales space that could turn the craft into a new tourism draw. Diplomacy: Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Petr Macinka is set to visit the U.S. May 25–28 for UN Security Council talks and meetings with senior officials. Regional Travel Buzz: Kuwait Airways announced 12 new summer routes from June, and the list includes plans that could eventually reach Tbilisi, Baku and other regional hubs.

World Cup Prep: Uzbekistan coach Fabio Cannavaro has named a final 30-man roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the team set to fly from Tashkent to New York on May 26 for a US camp and friendlies vs Canada (June 1) and the Netherlands (June 8). Regional Rail Breakthrough: Armenia says the Akhalkalaki–Kars railway link is now open for exports and imports, a potential new trade corridor that could later connect further via Azerbaijan and Nakhchivan toward Iran. Azerbaijan Travel & Transport: Azerbaijan Railways (ADY) is offering free and discounted travel for children on the Baku–Tbilisi route, with free rides for under-5s (no seat) and up to 50% discounts for ages 5–10. Diplomacy Watch: Pakistan and Qatar are reported to be mediating Iran–US talks in Tehran as tensions rise. Culture & Heritage: WUF13 in Baku continues to spotlight “smart reserve” and digital governance for historical cities, including Icherisheher’s living-city approach.

WUF13 Afterglow in Baku: The World Urban Forum’s 13th session wrapped with the “Baku Call to Action,” pushing housing to the center of urban policy—from land and infrastructure to climate and financing—while the baton passed to Mexico City for WUF14. Smart Heritage & Daily Life: At WUF13 events, Icherisheher’s “smart reserve” model was highlighted as a way to keep the historic Old City a living community, not just a tourist stop. Transport for Families: Azerbaijan Railways says children can travel cheaper on the Baku–Tbilisi route—free under age 5 (no seat), and up to 50% off for ages 5–10—with passport rules and notarized consent for solo or adult-only travel. Regional Travel Mood: Eid Al Adha travel demand is shifting toward shorter, safer GCC trips, with Bahrainis leaning on Dubai/Abu Dhabi as costs and regional uncertainty shape plans. Ongoing Legal Pressure: In the Meydan TV case, journalists protested in court as the trial continues in Baku.

Ghana Paralympics Push: Ghana has kicked off its LA2028 qualification journey, sending its Para Powerlifting team to Algeria for the African Open Para Powerlifting Championships in Oran. Armenia Vote Watch: Armenia’s 7 June parliamentary elections are unfolding in a polarized environment, according to an ODIHR interim report, with disputes tied to peace implementation, reforms, and opposition charges. Azerbaijan Courts Spotlight: In the Meydan TV case, journalists protested in court after judges repeatedly interrupted them, with the trial continuing amid claims of pressure on media. WUF13 Afterglow in Baku: The World Urban Forum’s Baku run is wrapping up with the “Baku Call to Action” putting housing at the center of urban policy—plus fresh attention on Icherisheher’s “smart reserve” approach. Travel Rules Ripple: Thailand has ended India’s 60-day visa-free entry, switching Indians to a 15-day Visa on Arrival. EU Travel Curbs: France has banned Israeli minister Itamar Ben-Gvir from entering France.

Courtroom Pressure in Azerbaijan: In the Meydan TV case at Baku Serious Crimes Court, journalist Khayala Agayeva’s statement was repeatedly interrupted, and she was ordered removed from the podium—while jailed journalists shouted “Cowards!” Diplomacy Watch: Pakistan and Qatar are reported to be mediating Iran–US talks in Tehran as tensions rise, with the US hinting at “slight progress” but keeping the door open to strikes. Travel Rules: Thailand has ended India’s 60-day visa-free stay, switching Indians to a 15-day Visa on Arrival under new Cabinet rules. Urban Spotlight: WUF13 in Baku wrapped up with the “Baku Call to Action,” pushing housing to the center of urban policy; Icherisheher leaders also highlighted a “Smart Reserve” push, including faster resident services after ASAN Xidmət. Regional Connectivity: Azerbaijan–EU Security Dialogue resumed in Baku, with both sides stressing energy security and the Middle Corridor.

Azerbaijan–Afghanistan Push: Azerbaijan’s presidential aide Hikmat Hajiyev says cooperation with Kabul is expanding across politics, business and education, with Baku’s embassy in Kabul fully operational and more student links expected. Rail Travel Perks: Azerbaijan Railways is rolling out free and discounted child fares on the Baku–Tbilisi route, including free travel for under-5s (no separate seat) and up to 50% off for ages 5–10, with tickets sold via ADY’s website, app and offices. Parliament Calendar: Azerbaijan’s spring Milli Majlis session is set to wrap up May 26. WUF13 Momentum: Baku Engineering University students showcased forum projects, from a “Time Travel” video installation to eco-friendly bench concepts. Diplomatic Signals: Paraguay’s president sent a congratulatory letter to Ilham Aliyev for Independence Day. Regional Noise: Armenia PM Nikol Pashinyan addressed gas-price rumors, enclave talks and threats against him as election pressure builds.

Azerbaijan–EU Security Push: Azerbaijan hosted the 7th EU Security Dialogue in Baku on May 20, with both sides stressing deeper cooperation on regional security, connectivity, energy security and the Middle Corridor, plus renewed EU support for humanitarian demining. Icherisheher Spotlight at WUF13: The Old City’s “smart reserve” and cultural-heritage management model is drawing global attention after WUF13 put Icherisheher’s preservation approach in the spotlight. Rail & Tourism Momentum: Georgia expects more tourists from Azerbaijan as passenger rail between Baku and Tbilisi resumes, while Azerbaijan Railways says the new trains will run in “Luxury,” “Comfort Plus” and “Comfort” classes starting May 25. Karabakh Reconstruction Updates: In Kalbajar, officials say residents’ return to Zar village is planned by the end of this year, alongside modernized museum restoration like the “Imarat” complex. Regional Travel Watch: Eid Al Adha is already shaking up UAE flight prices, with fares swinging sharply by departure date.

Rail Revival: Passenger trains between Baku and Tbilisi are back on the map, with Azerbaijan Railways confirming the restart and detailing what travelers get—three service classes (“Luxury,” “Comfort Plus,” and “Comfort”), restaurant carriage, Wi‑Fi, and even shower cabins in Luxury; the first run is set for May 25, with special accessibility arrangements for passengers with limited mobility. Independence Day Diplomacy: Thailand’s King sent President Ilham Aliyev a warm Independence Day message, pointing to growing cooperation in trade, investment, and tourism. WUF13 Momentum: As the World Urban Forum continues in Baku, sessions keep spotlighting housing recovery and climate-resilient cities, while international media tours highlight Shamakhi’s heritage—from the 743-built Juma Mosque to local wine and blacksmith traditions. Culture & Art: Azerbaijani artists are also being showcased abroad, with exhibitions in China and fresh cultural exchanges feeding into the travel buzz.

WUF13 Momentum in Baku: The World Urban Forum’s fifth day kicked off with a heavy focus on housing and post-crisis urban recovery, while Mobility Upgrades: Baku unveiled planned railway, metro and tram passenger projects and detailed how green bus lanes and fleets are expanding. Inclusive Rail Travel: Azerbaijan Railways is rolling out special conditions on the Baku–Tbilisi route for passengers with limited mobility, using sleeper-style carriages with comfort tiers and a total capacity of 118. Sustainability Push: Lawmakers and experts at WUF13 highlighted Azerbaijan’s first national sustainability standards, tying them to tourism, public spaces and resource management. Regional Cooperation: Punjab and Azerbaijan agreed to form a joint working group to boost trade, investment, urban development, logistics and tourism. Culture & Heritage Tech: Bir signed an MoU to digitize Icherisheher with multilingual guides, smart navigation and AI support—aimed at making the UNESCO Old City easier to explore.

Border Breakthrough: Azerbaijan has reopened its land border for the first time since Covid, with passenger rail service resuming with Georgia and a Baku–Tbilisi link set to restart May 26—framed as a humanitarian move for families separated for years, while other overland crossings stay sealed. WUF13 Momentum: Baku’s World Urban Forum is driving fresh tourism-and-city ideas, from Caspian climate resilience talks to sessions on transit-oriented development, green spaces, and “urbicide” and post-conflict reconstruction. Digital Old City Push: Bir signed an MoU with Icherisheher to roll out AI and multilingual smart navigation, QR heritage info, and a unified mobile platform for residents and visitors. Tourism & Culture: Azerbaijan showcased gastro-tourism abroad and opened a new “Art Bridge… Azerbaijan–Türkiye” exhibition at the Carpet Museum. Regional Trade Links: Pakistan’s Punjab and Azerbaijan agreed to form a joint economic working group covering trade, investment, logistics, tourism, and infrastructure.

World Urban Forum momentum in Baku: A key heritage message landed today: historic cities shouldn’t be “frozen monuments,” but living places where street life, mixed uses, and clear rules keep culture working in everyday urban life. Cultural diplomacy & tourism hooks: The “Art Bridge… Azerbaijan – Türkiye” exhibition opened at the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum, while Mauritius President Daramber Gokhool toured Icherisheher’s UNESCO-listed landmarks. Smart city delivery: Icherisheher’s new “Smart Reserve” three-year transformation strategy was unveiled, tying heritage protection to digital upgrades, mobility, museums, and tourism. Food as a travel draw: Azerbaijan’s gastro-tourism pitch reached the Worldchefs Congress & Expo in the UK. Regional connectivity for travelers: Azerbaijan and Georgia’s rail revival via the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars line is set to resume by May 26, boosting people-to-people links. Sports tourism angle: Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan signed a table tennis cooperation memo, including joint camps and sports tourism. Housing stays center stage: WUF13 discussions again spotlighted the global housing crisis and the need for scalable financing.

WUF13 Momentum in Baku: President Ilham Aliyev kept a packed diplomatic run going at the UN World Urban Forum, while Azerbaijan’s tourism and urban-rebuild message took center stage at the Urban Expo pavilion with VR tours, tea culture sessions, and eco and winter travel showcases. Rail & Transit Boost: Georgia says the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars rail section will start operating by month-end, with rail service between Georgia and Azerbaijan set to resume from May 26—good news for travelers and regional connectivity. Caspian Climate Finance: A WUF13 high-level dialogue focused on climate-resilient cities along the Caspian, flagging Caspian Sea water-level decline as a direct hit to fishing, tourism, and coastal livelihoods. Shusha as a Visitor Magnet: Updates from Shusha include new housing blocks, a planned Victory Museum, and Dashalti launching as a tourism village—plus resettlement timelines for nearby villages. Regional Travel Watch: Thailand is cutting its 60-day visa-free scheme for 93 countries, tightening entry rules as of upcoming changes.