On May 6–7, 2026, Mingachevir State University (MSU), jointly organized with the Institute of Geography of the Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan, is holding a republican scientific conference titled “Assessment and Improvement of Tourism Potential in Azerbaijan,” dedicated to the 115th anniversary of the birth of the distinguished climate scientist and Honored Scientist Anvar Shikhlinski.

The event, held in the university’s assembly hall, is attended by the leadership of the Institute of Geography and MSU, academic staff members, students, and master’s degree candidates.

The conference began with a one-minute silence in memory of National Leader Heydar Aliyev and the martyrs, followed by the performance of the National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Opening the event with an introductory speech, the Rector of Mingachevir State University, Anar Eminov, spoke about the significance of the conference and noted that the development of the tourism sector is one of the key directions of the country’s socio-economic progress. He emphasized that tourism also plays a crucial role in ensuring sustainable regional development, preserving ecological balance, and promoting cultural heritage.

The Rector highlighted that, against the backdrop of climate change and global environmental challenges, the scientific assessment of tourism potential has become one of the pressing issues of today. He stressed the important role of universities in conducting scientific research in this field, promoting environmental awareness, and supporting initiatives aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.

At the same time, Anar Eminov spoke about Anvar Shikhlinski’s contributions to Azerbaijani geography and climatology, noting that the prominent scientist’s rich academic legacy remains highly relevant today in the study of climate, environmental security, and regional development issues. He added that such conferences serve as an important platform for the exchange of scientific knowledge, the expansion of multidisciplinary cooperation, and the encouragement of young researchers toward scientific activity.

In his speech, the Director of the Institute of Geography, Zaur Imrani, expressed gratitude to the leadership and organizing committee of Mingachevir State University for the high-level organization of the republican scientific conference dedicated to such a relevant topic. He stated that Azerbaijan’s geographical environment, climate diversity, and rich natural resources play a significant role in shaping the country’s tourism potential.

The Director emphasized that the development of the tourism sector in the modern era requires not only economic but also environmental and social approaches. In this regard, he underlined the importance of expanding scientific research, studying the tourism opportunities of regions on a scientific basis, and ensuring the efficient use of natural resources. Zaur Imrani also noted that the contributions of the distinguished climate scientist Anvar Shikhlinski to Azerbaijani geographical science continue to maintain their relevance today.

Within the framework of the conference, a memorandum of cooperation on the training of professional personnel in tourism- and ecology-oriented specialties was signed between Mingachevir State University and the Institute of Geography of Azerbaijan. The memorandum envisages increasing students’ practical knowledge and skills, implementing joint scientific research projects, developing modern educational programs, organizing masterclasses, and supporting the preparation of competitive specialists in the fields of tourism, ecology, and geography in line with labor market demands.

The conference continued with panel discussions.

Mirnuh Ismayilov, Associate Professor and Head of the Laboratory of Landscape Studies and Natural Resource Use at the Institute of Geography, stated in his speech that the rich landscape characteristics of various regions of the country create broad opportunities for tourism development. He shared insights regarding the results of scientific research conducted in this field and the assessment of regional tourism potential.

Said Safarov, Associate Professor and Head of the Laboratory of Caspian Sea Geography at the Institute of Geography, emphasized the extensive tourism potential of the Caspian region. Particular attention was paid to the development prospects of coastal zones in terms of tourism and recreation.

Elshad Abbasov, Manager of the Reception and Registration Department of the Kur Olympic Training and Sports Center, shared his views on the development of sports tourism, existing opportunities in this field, and future prospects.

As part of the conference, a report was presented by Museyib Yunusov, PhD in Geography and Head of the Scientific Personnel Training Sector of the Institute of Geography. The presentation particularly emphasized methods for assessing tourism potential and the importance of professional personnel training in this field.

The event then continued with an artistic program featuring selected pieces of Azerbaijani music, adding a special atmosphere to the conference.

The conference proceeded with hybrid-format sectional sessions. During these sessions, the development prospects of the tourism sector, the potential opportunities of regions, innovative approaches, and scientific-practical proposals were widely discussed, while participants engaged in productive exchanges of ideas.

It should be noted that the conference is of great importance in terms of applying scientific approaches to the development of the tourism sector in the country, expanding research in this field, and strengthening scientific cooperation.