On September 24, the Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB), in collaboration with Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) CJSC, organized a series of events in Beijing aimed at enhancing tourism ties between Azerbaijan and the People’s Republic of China.
As part of these efforts, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Azerbaijan Airlines, the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, and Trip.com Group to boost cooperation in the tourism sector. The agreement will facilitate the promotion of Azerbaijan as an attractive destination for Chinese travelers through the Ctrip platform.
Speaking at the event, CEO of ATB, Florian Sengstschmid, emphasized the significance of this partnership, noting that tourism relations between Azerbaijan and China have reached new heights with the increasing number of visitors and customized offerings. He stated that the collaboration, reinforced by the MoU with Trip.com Group, marks a key step in strengthening Azerbaijan’s presence in the Chinese market.
Additionally, a press conference was held with the participation of 30 leading Chinese media representatives to introduce Azerbaijan’s tourism potential. Key topics included the visa-free regime for Chinese tourists, ATB’s official representation in China, and the direct flights between Baku and Beijing operated by AZAL.
It was highlighted that, starting from July 20, 2024, until July 20, 2025, the visa-free regime allows Chinese citizens to visit Azerbaijan up to three times per year.
AZAL’s Chief Commercial Officer, Jamil Manizade, emphasized that since December 2023, AZAL has been operating twice-weekly direct flights between Baku and Beijing. He described this route not just as a connection between two capitals, but also as a bridge fostering cultural, economic, and social ties between the two nations.
The second half of the day featured an exclusive gala dinner attended by over 100 representatives from Chinese embassies, media, and tourism agencies, with the participation of Azerbaijan’s Minister of Digital Development and Transport, Rashad Nabiyev, and other officials.
It is worth noting that, to enhance awareness of Azerbaijan’s tourism offerings among Chinese industry professionals and strengthen Azerbaijan’s presence in the Chinese market, the Azerbaijan Tourism Board organized a series of promotional events from September 18-24 in Shenzhen, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Beijing.
Between January and August 2024, 26,866 Chinese visitors traveled to Azerbaijan, reflecting a 104% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
