The fourth meeting of the Azerbaijan National Initiative Group for the Development and Planning of the Regional Dialogue was held at the Institute of Geography named after academician H.A.Aliyev.

Within the framework of the project “Strengthening adaptive skills in the Caucasus”, the goal of the event dedicated to the theme of “Tourist and recreational zoning of the regions of Azerbaijan” was to create a single platform consisting of scientists, civil servants and businessmen for various stakeholders representing the Caucasian society. The meeting was attended by representatives of the National Initiative Group, the Sustainable Caucasus Organization, the State Tourism Agency, the Academy of Public Administration and other specialized organizations.

Rza Mahmudov, head of the department of the Institute, Doctor of Geography, who chaired the meeting, introduced the participants to the agenda, the role and importance of tourism in the country's economy, the development of tourism in Azerbaijan, etc. After providing information about the project, a representative of the Sustainable Caucasus Organization from Azerbaijan, Ph.D. Fuad Baghirov took the floor. He provided information about the organization he represents, its goals and activities, events held by him, as well as the International Forum with the support of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the UN Environment Program, which will be held in Kutaisi (Georgia) in June next year.

Islam Mustafayev, co-chairman of the National Initiative Group, General Director of the Institute of Radiation Problems, corresponding member of ANAS, spoke about the significance of the International Forum to be held in Kutaisi, the importance of Azerbaijan's active participation in it and the activities of the Regional Environmental Center.

Presentations were made by: Head of the Department of Tourism and Recreational Geography of the Institute of Geography, Associate Professor Zaur Imrani (“Tourist and Recreational Regionalization of the Regions of Azerbaijan”), Senior Researcher of the Institute, Associate Professor Mammad Sadigov (“The Need for the Development of Rural and Field Tourism in Azerbaijan”), Associate Professor ASU, Ph.D. Vugar Dargakhov.

After discussing the speeches, the meeting ended its work.