Baku hosts key event to boost tourism links between Azerbaijan, Croatia

An event aimed at enhancing cooperation between Azerbaijan and Croatia in the field of tourism took place in Baku.

Organized by the Croatian Tourist Board, the event featured a speech from the Croatian Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Branko Zebic, during the opening, Caliber.Az reports per local media.

He highlighted the embassy’s efforts to foster closer connections between Zagreb and Baku in order to increase the flow of tourists.

"This sector will bring our two nations even closer together. We have much in common, whether in terms of mentality or history," Zebic remarked.

The ambassador emphasized that while relations between Azerbaijan and Croatia are strengthening, there is still much potential for further development.

"As an ambassador, it is important to me that Azerbaijanis and Croats meet more frequently. This will deepen the cooperation between our countries," Zebic concluded.

To recap, Azerbaijan has been intensifying its economic relations with countries in Southern and Eastern Europe, particularly with Croatia, over recent years, driven by mutual respect and shared positions on international law and sovereignty.

The countries have signed numerous agreements, with trade turnover surpassing $1 billion, bolstered by Azerbaijan’s energy exports, especially oil. Croatia is the second-largest European importer of Azerbaijani oil, with over 1.15 million tonnes imported in 2023. The Ionian-Adriatic Pipeline (IAP) project promises to enhance gas exports from Azerbaijan to Croatia, further solidifying energy ties.

Beyond energy, both countries are expanding cooperation in non-oil sectors such as agriculture, alternative energy, tourism, and IT. Croatian companies are actively involved in Azerbaijan’s telecommunications sector, with significant interest in renewable energy projects, including small hydroelectric power plants.

Additionally, the two countries are exploring joint pharmaceutical production and business ventures in the recently liberated Azerbaijani territories.

Recent forums and the third meeting of the Azerbaijani-Croatian intergovernmental commission have focused on increasing bilateral trade and investment. Over 40 Croatian companies from various sectors attended a business forum in Baku, reinforcing a positive outlook on future collaborations.

As the trade volume continues to rise, Croatia’s role as an EU member and a key partner in the Middle Corridor project enhances its strategic importance for Azerbaijan, especially in terms of energy security and regional connectivity.

By Aghakazim Guliyev