The XI Nevsky International Ecological Congress convened from May twenty-second to twenty-third, 2025, at the historic Tauride Palace in St. Petersburg, Russia, drawing distinguished participants from across the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and beyond. Among the notable delegates was the Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB), whose active involvement underscored the growing significance of sustainable tourism initiatives within the region.

Central to this year’s congress was the theme “Living in Harmony with Nature,” which provided a compelling framework for discourse on ecological preservation and responsible development. Representing the Azerbaijan Tourism Board, Mr. Jalal Ismayilov, Director of the Board’s Representative Office in Russia, delivered a comprehensive presentation entitled “Azerbaijan’s Approach to Ecotourism.” His address spotlighted Azerbaijan’s strategic priorities aimed at harnessing its vast natural resources for ecotourism development, positioning the country as a rising leader in environmentally conscious travel.

Mr. Ismayilov detailed the country’s multifaceted efforts to expand nature-based tourism routes, emphasizing the creation and enhancement of extensive hiking trail networks across Azerbaijan’s diverse landscapes. These trails traverse scenic mountainous terrains, dense forests, and pristine national parks, offering visitors immersive experiences in the country’s rich biodiversity. Additionally, the promotion of birdwatching sites was highlighted as a key focus, given Azerbaijan’s unique geographic location along the migratory pathways of numerous rare and protected avian species. This niche tourism segment has attracted increasing interest from global nature enthusiasts and conservationists alike.

Azerbaijan’s commitment to sustainable tourism was further underscored in the context of its role as the upcoming host of the 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29). Mr. Ismayilov referenced the Tourism Climate Action Declaration adopted during the congress, which reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s pledge to integrate environmental responsibility into all facets of the tourism industry. This declaration serves as a call to action for tourism stakeholders to adopt climate-conscious policies and practices that minimize ecological footprints while promoting economic growth.

The Nevsky International Ecological Congress itself holds a prestigious legacy dating back to 2008, co-organized by the Interparliamentary Assembly of CIS Member States in partnership with the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation. Over the years, the congress has evolved into a vital platform facilitating parliamentary dialogue on environmental protection, legislative harmonization, and the advancement of ecological safety standards across member states. Its enduring influence reflects the growing recognition of environmental issues as pivotal to sustainable regional development.

This year’s congress devoted a specialized session to the burgeoning field of ecotourism, acknowledging its rapid growth within the global travel industry. The session provided an invaluable forum for stakeholders to discuss the immense potential and challenges facing ecotourism development. Experts and policymakers converged to explore the necessity of robust regulatory frameworks that balance economic incentives with conservation imperatives. Furthermore, discussions emphasized the importance of financial mechanisms, including investment incentives and public-private partnerships, to support the sustainable expansion of ecotourism infrastructure.

The Azerbaijani delegation’s participation highlighted the intersection of national policy with global ecological commitments. By showcasing Azerbaijan’s proactive steps toward integrating sustainable tourism into its broader environmental strategy, the country demonstrated leadership that aligns with international efforts to combat climate change. The focus on nature-based tourism reflects a forward-looking vision that not only preserves biodiversity but also creates meaningful economic opportunities for local communities.

In summary, the XI Nevsky International Ecological Congress offered a vital platform for advancing environmental stewardship through cooperation and innovation. Azerbaijan’s presentation on ecotourism resonated strongly within the congress’s broader agenda of promoting harmony between human activity and natural ecosystems. As global interest in ecotourism continues to accelerate, such high-level engagements are critical to shaping policies that foster sustainable growth while safeguarding the planet’s ecological heritage for future generations.

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