Azerbaijan the topic: Parliamentary Investigation in foreign countries 500-600 words. Written assignment: you need to do a summary + including some personal analysis the summary needs to be–, stra

Azerbaijan the topic: Parliamentary Investigation in foreign countries 500-600 words. Written assignment: you need to do a summary + including some personal analysis the summary needs to be–, stra
1 Approved by Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated December 6, 2016 Strategic Road m ap for the Development of Specialized Tourism Industry in the Republic of Azerbaijan 2 Content s 1. Executive Summary ………………………….. ………………………….. ……………………… 4 2. GLOBAL TRENDS ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………… 6 3. ANALYSIS OF CURRENT SITUATION ………………………….. ………………………. 10 3.1. Current status of tourism sector ………………………….. ………………………….. …….. 10 3.2. SWOT analysis of tourism sector ………………………….. ………………………….. ……. 17 4. STRATEGIC VISION ………………………….. ………………………….. ……………………. 18 4.1. Str ategic vision for 2020 ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………… 18 4.2. Long term vision of Azerbaijan in Tourism for 2025 ………………………….. ……… 19 4.3. Aspirational Vision of Azerbaijan in Tourism for post 2025 ……………………….. 20 5. TARGET INDICATORS ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………… 23 6. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES ………………………….. ………………………….. ………….. 24 7. STRATEGIC TARGETS ………………………….. ………………………….. ……………….. 25 7.1. Str ategic target 1. Realize Baku’s full tourism potential by attracting more international visitors ………………………….. ………………………….. ……………………… 25 7.1.1. Priority 1.1. Establish a National Tourism Promotion Bureau and ensure its operation first in Baku city ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. 25 7.1.2. Priority 1.2. Upgrade available informa tion on tourism attractions in Baku and package tourism offerings ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ……………….. 27 7.1.3. Priority 1.3. Implement a Baku city promotion campaig n ………………………….. …………………. 33 7.1.4. Priority 1.4. Develop Baku’s tourism infrastructure, including low -cost accommodations and robust tourist areas ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ……………. 37 7.2. Strategic target2. Implement Key Enablers to Develop Tourism in the Country ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………… 42 7.2.1. Priority 2.1. Establish Tourism Council ………………………….. ………………………….. ……………… 42 7.2.2. Priority 2.2. Create Tourism Recreation Zones (TRZs) ………………………….. ……………………. 43 7.2.3. Priority 2.3. Develop Regional Tourism Service Infrastructure for Domestic and International Tourists to resolve seasonality problem in tourism ………………………….. …………………………. 45 7.2.4. Priority 2.4. S implify and expedite visa processes and border crossing procedures ………… 47 7.2.5. Priority 2.5. Improve air connectivity to major sourc e markets ………………………….. ………….. 50 7.3. Strategic target 3. Develop regional tourism sub -sectors for domestic and regional tourists ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. .. 55 7.3.1. Priority 3.1. Revitalize demand for wellness tourism ………………………….. ……………………….. 55 3 7.3.2. Priority 3.2. Support the development of winter tourism ………………………….. …………………… 59 7.3.3. Priority 3.3. Create cultural tourism circuits ………………………….. ………………………….. ……….. 63 7.3.4. Priority 3.4. Support the devel opment of business tourism ………………………….. ………………. 66 7.3.5. Priority 3.5. Strengthen sustainable tourism potential (eco – tourism, rural tourism, etc.) …… 68 7.4. Strategic target 4. Create a national tourism quality system to increase tourist satisfaction ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. ………. 72 7.4.1. Priority 4.1. Invest in tourism education programs ………………………….. ………………………….. 72 7.4.2. Priority 4.2. Improve standardization and certification system in tourismsector ……………….. 75 8. FINANCING MECHANISM ………………………….. ………………………….. ……………. 77 9. Imp lement, monitor and evaluate ………………………….. ………………………….. … 78 10. Actions Plan ………………………….. ………………………….. ………………………….. .. 80 4 1. Executive Summary A working group was established for the purpose of developing a detailed development plan for 11 sectors (8 main and 3 subsectors) of Azerbaijani economy as specified by the Presidential Order No. 1897, dated 16 th March, on “approval of main directions of the strategic road map for national economy and key sectors of the economy”. The working group was commissioned to develop an economic development strategy and action plan until 2020, strategic vision until 2025 and aspirational vision for post 2025. Alongside serving for the sustainability of activities carried out towards the development of tourism sector, identifying tourism as one of the priority directions in the national economy development strategy, will create necessary conditions for Azerbaijan to take a leading position as an attractive tourism destination , facilitate the development of cooperation among tourism sector p layers based on efficient use of mutual interactions and available tourism potential and result in increasing the quality of tourism services in Azerbaijan . The Strategic Road map encompasses actions such as the support of tourism sector development within the planned periods of time, supply of high quality and competitive tourism services in global and local markets, shaping of tourism practices in line with national values, attracting new investment projects based on the state -of-the -art ideas and innovati ons and effective interaction among respective bodies involved in the tourism sector development. According to the statistic indicators of the recent years, the tourism sector has proved to be one of the continuously developing sectors in Azerbaijan . The n umber of tourism enterprises in Azerbaijan and number of international tourist arrivals all demonstrated 4,5% and 8,5% 1 annual growth rates in last 5 years. Today, the tourism industry contributes up to 4,5% AND 3,3% 2 of direct GDP and employ ment to the co untry’s economy. Baku has been the engine of this tourism sector growth for business an d leisure travelers alike, as a well -known tourist destination in the international scene. In addition, the development of regional tourism has complemented this growth in multiple sub -sectors. Analysis suggests that Azerbaijan could grow further through both drawing more tourists from neighboring countries and becoming niche tourism destination for larger demand countries globally. Building on currents strengths and oppo rtunities, Azerbaijan’s tourism vision for 2025 is to become one of the top growing tourism destinations in the region and around the world. By post 2025, the country aims to be one of the most preferred 20 touristic locations and increase by maximum the i ndicators of effective use of the existing tourism resources. It will achieve this vision through improved connectivity and accessibility, strengthened value proposition in multiple tourism segments (including soft and hard infrastructure), and successful promotion of its values internationally. This growth will be driven by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in tourism, supported by foreign direct investment (FDI) to the sector. The development will respect environmental sustainability principles and will be a key element of rural and regional development in Azerbaijan. 1 Source: State Statistical Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan 2 Source: State Statistical Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan 5 To achieve the long term visions in this sector, Azerbaijan has defined four primary objectives for 2020 in tourism sector. First objective is to fully leverage Baku’s tourism potential. Baku already attracts an important number of international tourists and has developed infrastructure. Four strategic priorities identified will allow Azerbaijan to achieve this vision. To leverage this potential more efficiently, these include establishmen t of a dedicated governance mechanism, provision of better information and update of various tourism packages, effective promotion of tourism activities, and targeted improvement of tourism infrastructure. Second objective is to create a favorable environm ent for the development of tourism sector including levers such as better governance mechanism at national level, establishment of tourism and recreation zones, developing tourism infrastructure at regional level to end seasonality, improving air connectiv ity and simplifying visa processes. Third target is to leverage and complement growth of tourism in Azerbaijan through regional tourism efforts. Investments will be made in development of wellness, winter and eco -tourism to have an integrated tourism devel opment in the country. Fourth objective is to invest in education programs in the field of tourism and improve standardization and certification systems in order to increase tourist satisfaction. Achievement of 2020 vision is estimated to bring AZN 293 million direct and AZN 172 million indirect incremental GDP for Azerbaijan. This will translate into total 35,000 employment of which 25,000 will be directly in the tourism sector. The r ealization of this impact will potentially require a total of AZN 350 million investment s, which will be met by public and private resources. The efforts to be implemented in tourism sector will be mainly led and coordinated by Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Re public of Azerbaijan . Table 1. Expected results from measures to be taken under the strategic road map # Name of the Priority GDP impact (AZN thous., 2020) Employment (Full time employees, 2020 ) Amount of investment, (AZN, mln) 1.1 Establish a National Tourism Promotion Bureau and ensure its operation initially in Baku 10 – – 1.2 Upgrade available information on tourism attractions in Baku and package tourism offerings 50 8500 15 1.3 Implement a Baku promotion campaign 230 16000 100 1.4 Develop Baku’s tourism infrastructure, including low -cost accommodations and robust tourist areas 70 6200 100 2.4 Simplify and expedite visa and border control processes 30 –– –– 2.5 Improve air connectivity to major source markets 30 –– –– 3.1 Revitalize demand for wellness tourism 5 150 15 3.2 Support development of winter tourism 20 300 15 3.3 Create cultural tourism circuits 20 3700 95 6 # Name of the Priority GDP impact (AZN thous., 2020) Employment (Full time employees, 2020 ) Amount of investment, (AZN, mln) 4.1 Invest in tourism industry education programs –– 150 10 Note 1: Only strategic priorities that have GDP impact more than AZN 10 million and employment more than 100 are shown in this table. Other strategic priorities are critical as enablers in order to ensure that the envisioned impact is achieved. Note 2: These figures are forecasted just as direction al purposes to give a sense of the impact. During implementation, each strategic priority would need a detailed feasibility assessment and checking of figures. 2. GLOBAL TRENDS International best practices demonstrate the considerable impact of tourism sectors on the development of manufacturing capacity, level of income generation and employment and on the development of other sectors. According to statistic records, tourism sec tor represented 9.8% of the global GDP and 9.5% of global employment in 2015 (Exhibit 1). Exhibit 1 . Tourism sector share in the global GDP and employment Source: World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) Apart from being a fast growing economic sector, the tourism sector is characteristic with its varying demographic indicators and varied geography. The tourism industry is sensitive to the macroeconomic conditions, thus it was affected dir ectly from the recent global crisis. However, it has recovered quickly after 2009 and got back onto a fast growth path in last four years (Exhibit 2). This trend was driven by two factors. On one hand, the improvement of the economy in advanced markets res ulted in increased tourism flows and spending from large tourism demand countries such as the US, Japan and Europe. On the other hand, global tourist arrivals and inbound spending are further boosted by the increasing demand from emerging markets. This eme rging market growth trend is observed in Asia and Latin America, which are growing rapidly with expanding middle classes and public sector commitment to tourism Direct impact Impact of tourism on World Economy (Nominal GDP, billion USD, 2015) Contribution of tourism sector employment to total employment %, 2015) Indirect impact Total =98% of Global GDP Global average (direct) = 36% Global average (total) = 9,5% Direct employment Indirect employment Oceania EU Caribbean Island South -East Asia North America North Africa Global Azerbaijan North -East Asia South Asia Latin America Middle East Semi -desert Africa Other Euro.Countries 7 and , additionally, increased and cheaper air services are among the key enablers of the growth. Exhibit 2. Indicators of added value in tourism ($ bn, based on actual prices in 2011) 1. Including Oceania Source: World Travel and Tourism Council The d evelopment of this sector led to the establishment of new tourism centers along with the existing tourism centers in Europe and North America. In 2015, tourism centers established in emerging economies were more than the tourism centers available in advanc ed economies. According to the forecasts of the UN World Tourism Organization, international tourist arrivals will reach 1,8 billion by 2030 and , as the result, an average 43 million additional international tourists will join the tourism marketplace every year. Emerging economies will receive twice more international tourist arrivals than advanced economies. Forecasts based on statistical analyses demonstrate the c onsiderable weight the tourism sector carries in the economy. Thus, this sector has been a ke y driver for socio -economic progress and is considered as a national priority for many countries around the world. Its impact can be classified into three categories. First, in addition to its direct contribution to GDP through sub -sectors such as airlines , hotels, car rental companies, the strong linkage effects on other sectors further increase tourism’s importance. Alon gside its direct and indirect impacts, tourism induces further GDP increasing linkage effects in other sectors (“induced impact) , such as in service, construction and manufacturing sectors. Moreover, the tourism sector is a vital source of foreign currency earnings for emerging and developing countries. Second, tourism has important impacts on employment and socio -economic development of regions. Furthermore, this employment is not limited only to urban areas but the development of this sector also creates employment opportunities in regions and rural areas through multiple sub -sectors such as eco -tourism, sun & beach tourism and religious tourism. Third, tourism development drives the buildup of strong infrastructure in countries as a whole and also supports regional and rural infrastructure development. Then, it can serve as a marketing tool for countries for t he reason that s uccessful tourism strategies help improve Impact of Financial Crisis Recovery Faster Growth Other Asia1 Europe America 8 image of a country in the international spheres. Finally , it reinforces efforts to preserve and promote environmental sustainability, cultural heritage and local values. In general, it is considere d that attractive tourism offerings create their own demand. Almost every destination has a comparative advantage related to its unique nature, cultural heritage or service infrastructure. Targeted efforts can turn these assets into a competitive advantage in tourism, much faster than in many other sectors. The three levers of these efforts are getting the basic in place (such as connectivity, infrastructure and safety), creating attractive tourism offerings (such as beach resorts or game parks, depending o n sub -sector addressed), and marketing them successfully. This includes active promotion of tourism opportunities domestically and abroad, cooperation with tour operators globally, and image campaigns for the country. On the other hand, tourism sector nee ds strong coordination for effective development. In this context, public policy has been typically used as a major driver of tourism sector competitiveness through defining the strategy for tourism sector development, coordinating stakeholder alignment, a nd steering the development of different tourism segments. As the result, many countries have coordinated tourism policies, and tourism marketing campaigns to promote growth in its tourism industry. To achieve success in tourism sector development, targete d approach needs to connect supply with demand, with a sub -sector focus. On the supply side, there needs to be a clear understanding of the competitive landscape for each sub -segment, and a country needs to leverage its assets to develop competitive edge. On the demand side, proximity to demand markets, visa regime and transport connectivity, including the availability of direct air flights are a key enabler. In addition, understanding of social, demographic and travel behavior allows design ing successful p rograms. Globally, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) and city tourism are the largest sub -segments in terms of size and c ruise, religious and sports tourism follow s these two sub -segments. Smaller ones include medical tourism, eco -tourism, and theme parks. Traditionally, targeting large sub -segments such as MICE and city travel has been the focus of tourism strategies. Countries and cities that are in proximity to the traditional mass tourism countries such as the USA, EU or Japan, ha s focused on improving offerings . However, currently there is an increased focus within regional markets, especially in developing markets such as Middle East and Asia. Countries focus on increasing specialized tourism offerings and it is critical to note that selection of the focus sub -segments and the corresponding strategy depends heavily on the country’s current comparative advantages. While health tourism for instance has been a successful development area for multiple countries, it can be unsuitable f or many others to develop. In general , five themes have emerged as global trends for tourism strategy development in recent years, to address changing dynamics of the industry. Firstly, countries and destinations have increased their focus on tourism branding and promotion. The emergence of new business models, social media and empowered consumers worldwide ha s markedly changed the global marketplace. The tourism industry has diversified the available choices, and segments to serve the increased number of tourists with different interests. These factors in addition to the vast choice of destinations generate the need to reassess existing structures and marketing strategies in order to adapt to the new market trends. In this light , public and private pla yers have been exploring initiatives to 9 further promote their destination, including targeting a niche positioning for exclusive and innovative offerings, differentiated business models, and brands for different products. Secondly, countries focus on stren gthening connectivity and accessibility, which is a key enabler. Advanced c ountries try to balance between different objectives of achieving low fares, increasing market depth and breadth, while sustaining a healthy national carrier, to build economic impa ct. In addition, many countries take actions to ease visa processes to improve accessibility with no major investment. Third, destinations place flagship projects at the core of implementing sector strategies. Flagship projects are immediate, large -scale a nd visible investment projects that support the sector strategy . I n addition, they can be powerful communication and marketing tools to implement larger reforms. Finally, they also reduce complexity of reforms by limiting the geographical coverage and act as an efficient pilot for the entire sector. Fourth, master plan development is used heavily as tool for fast tourism sector development. Central units are mandated as responsible for preparation and execution of these plans. This not only simplifies cert ain processes and makes investment attractive for investors, but also allows an integrated branding strategy. It places public institutions as an integral part of the development and enables tailored planning of required infrastructure such as expansion of transport or environmental conservation efforts. Fifth, emerging and developing countries rely more and more on foreign direct investment (FDI) in tourism development. This is primarily due to the fact that certain developments require high investment, pa rticularly in cases where infrastructure investment is needed. However, even in situations where investment is not a major issue, collaboration with international investors could pay off, as value chain is largely influenced by international companies. 10 3. ANALYSIS OF CURRENT SITUATION 3.1. Current status of tourism sector Tourism policy frameworks Several measures targeting tourism sector development in recent years contributed to the sustainable development of this sector. The i mplementation of the “State Program on the development of tourism in the Republic of Azerbaijan in 2002 – 2005” approved by the Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan No. 1029, dated 27 August, 2002, created favorable conditions for the deve lopment of tourism and laid foundation for the country’s integration into global tourism market. As a continuation of this policy, “State Program on the development of tourism in the Republic of Azerbaijan in 2010 – 2014” was approved by the Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan No. 838, dated 6 April 2010 in order to establish advanced tourism sector meeting high economic, social and environmental requirements and turn it into one of the key enablers of the country ’s economy. In the light o f need for further development of tourism sector and favorable environment for tourism activities, 2011 was announced “ The year of Tourism” in the Republic of Azerbaijan by the Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan No. 1320, dated 15 February 2011 in order to promote natural sites, as well as cultural -historical heritage of the country enjoying rich geographic landscape while also ensuring the efficient use of tourism resources. The d evelopment of tourism infrastructure in the country and provision of tourism services in line with international standards requires the country to improve legislative framework governing this field and government al regulation mechanisms, expand opportunities for use of the existing tourism p otential, stimulate regional tour ism, and offer new tourism circuits as well as mak ing competitive price offerings. To achieve this goal, relevant government bodies were instructed to take necessary measures by the Decree of the President of the Republic o f Azerbaijan No. 2295, dated 1 September 2016, on “Additional measures for the development of tourism in the Republic of Azerbaijan”. Role of tourism in the economy of Azerbaijan Azerbaijan is a country located at the crossroads between East and West with its capital Baku having modern infrastructure and ancient rich historical sites and with regions encompassing fascinating nature and national parks. Partly because of this exposure, Baku has received the lion’s share of Azerbaijan’s global tourism recogni tion. According to popular tourism information websites, Baku is home to 75 percent 3 of destinations preferred by international tourists. The remaining share is captured by the regional tourism, which signals room for growth in future. 3 3 According to tourism information websites “Lonely Planet” and “Trip Advisor” 11 Exhibit 3. Countrywide indicators on tourism sector Source: State Statistical Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan An analysis of recent trends show s that Azerbaijan’s tourism sector as a whole is on the rise. From 2010 to 2015, the number of tourism enterprises in Azerbaijan increased 4,5 percent in ave rage per year, tourism employment grew 6 percent, and the number of international tourist arrivals grew 8,5 percent. (Exhibit 3) 4. According to data from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), Azerbaijan’s tourism industry contributes 2.8 percent of direct GDP and 2.6 percent of direct employment — slightly below the world averages of 3 percent of direct GDP and 3.6 percent of direct employment, which signals further growth potential. (Exhibit 4). 4 4 Source: State Statistical Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan, World Travel and Tourism Council and W orld Bank Tourism enterprises (pcs) Hotels International Tourist Arrivals (mn, persons) Tourism agencies Direct Tourism Employment (thousand, persons) Average annual growth 12 Exhibit 4. Contribution of tourism sector to GDP and employment in Azerbaijan and other regions (with percentage) Source: World Travel and Tourism Council In the light of the above mention ed , it is important to create necessary infrastructure for the successful implementation of nationwide tourism -related projects, undertake awareness raising works to increase the income of local people in regions , prepare different types of tourism circuits and expand international cooperation. Azerbaijan’s potential for different tourism sub -segments According to global best practices, tourism products and services with a potential to generate high profit require a constant attention and alignment with consumerpreferences . The s upport of private initiatives to develop tourism products in the Republic o f Azerbaijan, establishment of favorable coordination at both local and regional level s, focus on consumer demands, strengthening regional and thematic target to develop a product, as well as interconnection among interesting and attractive products are im portant aspects. Cultural tourism Cultural Tourism (or culture tourism) is the subset of tourism concerned with cultural heritage of regions, specifically the way of life, history, art, architecture, religion, etc. of the people in those geographical are as. Cultural tourism includes tourism in historical sites, cultural facilities such as reserved areas, monuments, theatres, museums, old and modern architectural objects in urban areas, as well as in rural areas. It also includes touristic travels in festi vals and holidays showcasing the traditions of indigenous cultural communities and their values and lifestyle. Obviously, international tourists arriving for cultural tourism purposes spend a big share of their money to services which make them different f rom ordinary tourists. This sub – segment of tourism has got globally popular. This tourism potential of the country includes arts galleries available in Baku, national music – Mugham, advanced world jazz music, national and foreign dances, rich culinary wit h delicious taste, tolerance to various religious and secular views. Azerbaijan 1 Selected countries GDP contribution, 2015 Global average Direct contribution Indirect contribution Total employment contribution, 2015 Kazakhstan Turkey Iran Russia Europe Middle East Global Georgia 13 Historical routes (for example, Great Silk Way, famous military campaigns, historical battle places, etc.) cover various areas as part of cultural tourism. Historical and cultural tourism circuits consistent with tourists’ preferences are globally appreciated, and thus could be accepted as a potential tourism sub -segment for Azerbaijan. Wellness tourism Azerbaijan has both traditional and modern medical treatment potential s. The country is endowed with thousands of hot and mineral wells. Istisu, Turshsu, Badam li, Galaalti, Shikhburnu and Surakha ny are among popular curative water sources. Na ph talan oil is one of the key health resort resources of Azerbaijan. Na ph talan oil is used to treat scores of illnesses, including rheumatism, vascular diseases, as well as metabolic disorder , skin and gynecological diseases. Bes ides, Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic is popular with its Duzdag Mountain (Salt Mountain). Mountain and winter tourism Mountai n and winter tourisms are prospective areas in Azerbaijan. There are tourism opportunities in mountainous regions of Azerbaijan. These areas attract special tourist groups who love nature or like to observe birds and wild animals and enjoy physical exercis e and excit ing sports. As the result of determined actions taken towards developing mountainous and winter tourism in the country, mountain slopes have been developed as a tourism destination. At present, “Shahdag” Tourism Centre CJSC and “Tufandag” Winter -Summer Resort have turned into popular resorts. Sports tourism It is worth to note that sports in Azerbaijan are a fast growing area. In recent years , sizeable investments have been made in the development of sports infrastructure. The c onstruction of Olympic sports complexes and creation of other sports fields and facilities in Baku, Masalli, Sheki, Guba, Gazakh, Ganja, Nakhichevan, Barda, Lenkaran, Zagatala, Aghdam, Bilesuvar, Og uz, Shemkir, Kurdemir, Sabirabad and other cit ies and districts enables t he country to host popular sports tournaments (European and world championships ) in the country. As an example, international tournaments in wrestling, gymnastics, boxing, volleyball, etc. could be named. Business tourism Business tourism is one of the mos t widespread tourism sub -segments in the country. At present, existing hotels built throughout the country are being used for the development of this tourism sub -segment. Nevertheless, congress and cultural centers located in different cities of the countr y could be widely used for this purpose. Beach tourism The northern (Khizi, Siyaz an, Shabran, Khachmaz regions) and southern (L ankaran, Astara regions) zones, starting from Absheron peninsula of the Republic of Azerbaijan, have a beach tourism potential. To achieve development of this tourism sub -segment, servicing infrastructures in beach areas (water ponds , swimming pools, etc.) should be aligned with appropriate standards and scope of servi ce offerings should be expanded (for example, entertainment centers, attractions). In addition, the biggest limitation the country isfacing now is the short period of this tourism season. 14 Eco tourism Azerbaijan is rich in flora and fauna, which demonstrat es its large eco -tourism potential. The Azerbaijan’s territory where 9 out of 11 climate types are found (from semi -desert and dry field climate to mountainous tundra climate) is home to over 4100 plant var ieties. Varieties of Azerbaijan’s plants demonstra te the deep history of local nature. This is also associated with the concentration of several floristic areas and diversity in the existing climate conditions. At the same time, 10 percent of Azerbaijani territory is covered by mountainous forests compose d of oak, hornbeam, beech and ash -trees. Tourist excursions and tours to nature (mountains, forests and rivers) could be organized using these opportunities. Hunting tourism Azerbaijan permits huntsmen , who have relevant licenses, to hunt several forest animals and wildfowls. Places pe rmanently wintered by water bog -birds are Agjabedi, Astara, Jalilabad (excluding Girmizi village hunting farm), Beylagan, Imishli ( excluding Sarisu and Bozgoby hunting farm s), Lankara n (Excluding Havz ava hunting farm), Masallı, Bilesuvar (Excluding Mahmudchala and Zavvar hunting farms), Ceyranbatan lake and other water reservoirs of Absheron peninsula , as well as Mingac hevir water reservoir. The Caucasian goat and other forest animals are allowed to hu nt based on special permission in hunting farms available in Guba, Ismayilli and Sheki districts. Primary market opportunities for Azerbaijan Azerbaijan receives tourists from almost all countries. Azerbaijan’s strategic tourism priorities could be design ed around attracting visitors from five main sources:  Azerbaijan itself (local demand from domestic tourists);   Neighboring countries including Turkey, Iran, Georgia, and Russia;   The Gulf region including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, Oman, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates;   The Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) including Belarus, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine and Uzbekistan;   Mass tourism countries including Canada, China, the European Union, India, Japan, South Korea and the United Sta tes. Azerbaijan Domestic tourism within Azerbaijan is common but has significant room for growth. In 2015, approximately 1.5 million to 2.0 million Azerbaijan residents 5 traveled within the country for tourism reasons, which give grounds that this indicator will continue with increasing rate. Neighboring countries Azerbaijan’s tourism economy currently has high demand from the neighboring countries of Georgia, Iran, Turk ey, and Russia, each of which sent more than 100,000 tourists 6 to Azerbaijan in 2015. Close geographical proximity, cultural similarities, and descent of Azerbaijan’s population all play a role in the high rate of tourist flow from these countries. In addi tion, these figures incorporate ethnic Azerbaijanis who travel to Azerbaijan primarily for 5 Number of domestic tourists in Azerbaijan is estimated based on approximation, using the ratio between number of international arrivals and number of accommodated international visitors. 6 Source: State Statistical Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan 15 family visits. Among tourists from the four key neighboring countries, Azerbaijan is among the top destinations, primarily competing with Georgia and Turkey (Exhibit 5). Yet the number of visitors to Turkey from Georgia is about three times higher than the number of visitors to Azerbaijan from Georgia; similarly, the number of visitors to Turkey from Iran is about 10 times higher than the number of visitors to Azerbai jan from Iran. Exhibit 5. Indicators on preference s of top tourism demand countries for Azerbaijan as a tourism destination (2015 ) Source: Euromonitor From 2009 to 2015, tourist arrivals to Azerbaijan from some neighboring countries increased : for example, tourist arrivals from Turkey grew at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8 percent, from Russia at a CAGR of 2 percent, and from Georgia at a CAGR of 1 percent. 7 However, the 12 percent CAGR decrease of Iranian tourists to Azerbaijan in 2009 – 2015 is worth further study ing . Azerbaijan will target, similar to Turkey, higher annual growth rate levels with Georgia, Iran, and Russia — especially given the close, often familial and cultural (Azerbaijani descent) ties of those countries’ citizens to Azerbaijan and their importance to its tourism sector. Turkey is a particularly ripe country for growth in tourism to Azerbaijan due to the ease of obtaining visa s, strong business and cultural ties, and the frequent and relatively inexpensive flights available between Istanbul Atatürk Airport, Europe’s third -largest airport, and Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport. At the same time, in view of residence o f ethnic Azerbaijani in neighboring countries (two million in Russia, more than ten millions in Iran and over half million in Georgia), it is possible to attract more tourists from the neighboring countries in the future. Mass tourism demand sources such a s the Gulf region and CIS countries 7 Source: Data obtained from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and State Statistical Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan Russia Georgia Turkey Iran 16 The Gulf region, the Central Asian CIS, and mass tourism demand sources each sent fewer than 20,000 tourists to Azerbaijan in 2014. However, each of these source markets offers unique opportunities for the expansion of Azerbaijan tourism. The mass tourism countries bloc sent a combined 450 and 500 million tourists abroad in 2014, with 4,2 percent annual growth in overall outbound tourism. 8 As such, securing a larger share of this market would contribute significantly to Azerbaijan’s tourism economy. After instituting a visa -on -arrival practice for residents of the Gulf region, tourist arrivals to Azerbaijan from these countries increased significantly. For example, arrivals from the United Arab Emirates constituted 821 9 tourists in 2014, which increased by 38931 110 in the first nine months of 2016. Another similar example is the recent increase in tourist arrivals from Iraq. This trend highlights potential of such markets for Azerbaijan, which are relatively close to many established tourism destinations in the west for various reasons. Yet, Azerbaijan could be niche market destination for many countries in the region with a shared tradition, history and culture. CIS countries also represent a similar unique opportunity for Azerbaijan. Residents of the CIS countries share many cultural – historical attributes with Azerbaijan and represent a large pool of likely visitors if better inform ed about Azerbaijan’s offerings . Major population centers 11 are gateways and important tourist contributors to Azerbaijan. Heydar Aliyev International Airpor t is within a short -haul flight of 26 major cities in the Gulf region, Asia, and Europe (see exhibit 6). Currently Baku is directly connected with 13 of these cities, which represent a total potential visitor population of 60 million. Conn ecting with the other 13 cities including Tabriz, Iran, which ar e less than an hour away by air, would add another 30 million people to short -haul flight distance. Exhibit 6 . Cities with short -haul flight distance to Azerbaijan 1 8 Information is based on the analysis of data from the World Bank. 9 Information is based on the analysis of data from the World Bank. 10 Source: Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Azerbaijan 11 “Major population centers” is defined here as those with a population of more than 1 million and/or capital cities, considering only top cities for each country. 17 1. Considering Baku Heydar Aliyev Airport and available flights as of July 2016. In addition , four major metropolitan areas – Tabriz and Ardabil, Iran; Makhachkal a, Russia; and Tbilisi, Georgia – are within a seven -hour drive of Baku (see exhibit 7). The population of these four metropolitan areas totals 3,7 million people who are potential visitors to Azerbaijan. Exhibit 7. Cities within a seven -hour drive of Baku According to an analysis of data from UNESCO, many large tourism sectors thrive on short – distance travelers who take shorter trips. Long -distance destinations, meanwhile, could focus on wellness and medical offerings . S o for example, Azerbaijan could explo it wellness and medical tourism (for example, asthma treatment at the Duzdag Salt Cave) to attract long – distance tourists. 3.2. SWOT analysis of tourism sector Existing direct flight with Baku No direct flight with Baku 1 hour flight 2 hours flight 3 hours flight 18 Strengths Weaknesses  Azerbaijan territory is rich in ancient history, rich cultural sites, favorable geographic location, alluring nature, folklore, and location at the crossroads of different religions ;  Availability of conference halls, hotels and other relevant service infrastructure;  government support of tourism ;  favorable geographic locatio n – proximity to Asia, Europe and Middle East region;  experience in organization of l arge -scale international events ;  selection of tourism as a priority sector by govern ment to develop non -oil economy.  Training of skilled wo rkers does not meet labo r marke t requirements both from quality and quantity perspectives;  Inadequacies in protection of environment;  Concentration of tourism attractions primarily in Baku city;  Less tourism information centers in the regions;  Touristic visits to regions are primarily possibly via car transport (insufficiency of railway and water transport, as well as flights);  Relatively less foreign language speakers in regions;  Insufficient promotion of the country abroad;  Lack of fast track offerings for foreign country nationals in border crossing points;  Lack of statistic database for tourism sector analysis;  Lack of regular monitoring of the satisfaction level of foreign tourists visiting the country.  Increase d professionalism of personnel;  Creation and develop ment of new tourism services;  Further simplification of travelling opportunities for foreign and domestic tourists;  Valuable resources such as Naftalan oil and Duzdag (Salt Mountain) in Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic owned by the country.  Private sector support of tourism within public – private partnership .  External threats to be caused due to geopolitical location of the country 4. STRATEGIC VISION 4.1. Strategic vision for 2020 Azerbaijan’s strategic vision for 2020 is to develop Baku into a major touristic destination, realize tourism potential for the entire country, establish favo rable environment and infrastructure for the development of tourism industry, as well as increasin g level of satisfaction among tourists. Highlights on strategic vision The following activities will be implemented by 2020: strengthening marketing and branding efforts to fully leverage Baku’s existing cultural -historical sites and modern infrastructure and better organize promotion and campaign measures; creating favo rable environment in the country by implementing support measures such as introduction of simplified and expedited 19 visa procedure to meet tourist preferences in different segments and by improving air connectivity ; develop ing regional tourism under specific segments and creating necessary conditions ; invest ing in education programs to increase tourist satisfaction and establish ing high quality tourism system as well as improving standardiz ation and certification systems in the tourism sector. 4.2. Long term vision of Azerbaijan in Tourism for 2025 Azerbaijan’s tourism vision for 2025 is to become one of the top attractive tourism destinations in the region and around the world. Highlights on long term vision Until 2025, Azerbaijan would already leave behind key achievements on its way towards this vision in terms of branding and marketing campaigns, airline and ground connectivity, infrastructure, touristic themes and their operation , ease of doing business and vocational tourism education. During this period, strategic priorities in tourism will be managed to ensure a balanced development that both realizes Baku’s potential and invests in the regional tourism (for various tourism sub -sectors i ncluding sun and beach, religious and cruise, in addition to already identified areas such as city, wellness, winter and eco -tourism) as required. Investments towards this vision will be managed through the strategic priorities in this roadmap until 2020, and will also include launch of longer -term strategic initiatives for their impact to be fully captured by 2025. This would enable Azerbaijan to draw steadily increasing number of tourists from around the world and increase the share of tourism revenues in its gross domestic product. In order to move along this direction, Azerbaijan will establish city brand ing bureaus , under National Tour ism Promotion Bureau , to govern all the branding and marketing activities in selected priority tourism regions. These bu reaus will aim to attract more domestic and international tourists and to incentivize international tourists to travel to Azerbaijan more frequently. These bureaus will govern collection of relevant passenger and travel data to form and populate a central database. Beyond 2025, this will help thoroughly analyze common themes within tourists visiting Azerbaijan and to launch the branding campaigns accordingly. As a pilot for this future state, data -driven marketing activities will first be strengthened aroun d Baku by 2025, as identified in the strategic priorities set for 2020. National Tourism Promotion Bureau will have research studies for the tourists traveling Azerbaijan and potential tourists in target countries to identify common traits and customer seg ments. With the increased depth of tourist interest insights, Azerbaijan would better position Baku as one of the top touristic destinations for new markets and travelers to reach its ultimate vision by 2025. In order to attract more FDI, Azerbaijan will c reate an enabling environment through simplified legal and administrative processes and relevant regulatory changes. It will review its existing state for doing business, and eliminate all foreseeable barriers for the future in corporation with the tourism associations. Azerbaijan will better market these touristic themes and their locations through producing and selling cultural ornaments and unique items. Beauty products from the Naphtalan region will be sold to tourists coming for wellness facilities in Azerbaijan as a memorial token, and will further be exported to other countries, starting from the neighboring ones. Other culturally unique products of Azerbaijan such as carpets, tea, and copper products will also be 20 marketed in these target countries and exported to t hem in the similar direction. This not only will bring in additional export revenue for Azerbaijan ’s economy, but also increase the recognition of Azerbaijan products as a whole across the borders and build up a reputation for its tourism. By 2025, Azerbai jan aspires to increase the number of its direct flights from 49 to more than 100, covering all major European cities as priority, in line with its long -term goal to become one of the busiest airports within its neighborhood. In addition to scheduled direc t flights, Azerbaijan aims to increase its charter flights especially during winter and summer tourism periods to bring in even more tourists from target demand markets. Azerbaijan will invest in its airports, focusing specifically on low -cost -carriers (LC Cs). By 2025, Azerbaijan will already achieve most of the infrastructure of its tourism facilities and attractions improved in the direction for its long -term vision for seamless touristic experience, in the regions and in Baku. It will improve qualificati ons of its existing low -cost accommodation alternatives (e.g. low cost brands of large hotel chains, hostels) and incentivize building of new ones to capture more customer segments from the international tourist pool, parallel to the increase in the demand for existing facilities. As the tourism sector grows in infrastructure, Azerbaijan will put more emphasis on the locally -sourced services and facilities. Few of the local commercial companies would grow into tourism conglomerates that offer extensive tou rism services such as recreational activities and amusement facilities on top of their core business like accommodation. Strengthened local presence in the sector would drive competition and quality of service upwards across Azerbaijan, with critical impor tance for the growth of regional tourism. Its tourism agencies will also be at the world standards and be known across borders especially in Caucasus, Middle East and Eastern Europe regions. By 2025, Azerbaijan will already be known for tourism under speci fic themes, i.e., wellness, wi nter, culture and eco -tourism. Furthermore, Azerbaijan will also ensure that its natural parks, attractions and religious locations are globally recognized and are popular destinations for domestic and international tourists . Silk Way along the northern -eastern corridor will be a popular eco -tourism destination, surrounded by historical villages that reflect the cultural heritage of Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan will be home to various tourism themes beyond 2025. It would be known for its high quality winter resorts, unique wellness facilities, one -of-a-kind natural beauties and parks and cultural heritage for religious and village tourism. Displaying the components of many different cultures, Azerbaijan’s well -preserved authentic vill ages would be among the main attractions. Tourists interested in experiencing the traditional culture far from the influence of the modern world will be visiting these villages. In the similar direction, Azerbaijan will improve and highlight its religious attractions for the potential tourist base. 4.3. Aspirational Vision of Azerbaijan in Tourism for p ost 2025 By post 2025, the country aims to be one of the most preferred 20 touristic locations and increase by maximum the indicators of effective use of existing tourism resources. Highlights on aspirational vision Azerbaijan aspires to be an attractive destination for international tourism targets in its long term vision through properly targeted branding campaigns, increased connectivity and 21 infrastructure, and improved variety and quality in its tourism attractions. This way it will ensure it draws the potential tourists from around the world and offers them a unique trav el experience worth remembering . More specifically, as its post -2025 vision, Azerbaijan aims to be one of the most preferred 20 touristic locations in the international tourism sector . For this purpose, Azerbaijan will launch high ly targeted and well -governed branding campaigns in key demand cities & countries and popular online platforms. Targeted tourism campaigns will be based on different themes and will be heavily data -driven. Centered on the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Azerbaijan has the geographical potential to become one of the world’s most connected countries. In the long term, Azerbaijan will utilize this advantage through its sophisticated logistics infrastructure to b ecome a regional hub for travelers. It aspires to be a natural flight transfer zone with more than 8 million passengers carried in and out annually through a liberalized and competitive aviation sector. This would mean an approximately four -fold increase o ver current levels of passenger traffic through Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport, molding Baku into a well -known stopover location for both business and leisure travelers. This increase in the number of passengers traveling through Azerbaijan will have a natural upward effect on the number of tourist arrivals. It would also support future transformation of Azerbaijan as a hub in the other sectors (e.g. health and education) as this upward trend can induce increased exposure of local businesses to gl obal companies. Apart from airline connectivity, Azerbaijan will initiate development of a strong high speed train and highway network in the long term. It will strengthen its connections to neighboring countries to further draw international tourists (e.g ., enhancement of the train connection to Iran) and i t will improve its railway , including subway system, and highway network within the country to make it convenient to get around within and between cities for tourists. This way Azerbaijan will ensure inc oming tourist potential not only stays in their initial destination, but rather moves around the country to visit either different cities or to travel along specifically designed travel -trails. Given all the additional tourist inflow into Azerbaijan, the a ccommodation and service infrastructure of Azerbaijan will also be boosted to meet this demand from different touristic segments. As a part of this, Azerbaijan would have a range of accommodation options from low -cost hostels and bed & breakfasts to luxuri ous hotels and resorts. Azerbaijan will ensure that the distribution of these hotels meet the tourist behavior map generated from data analytics and research conducted by the National T ourism Promotion Bureau to accurately offer accommodation alternatives for tourists depending on their travel budget. Besides, Caspian Sea offers a substantial potential to fuel the tourism economy. Azerbaijan in this direction aspires to be the most preferred summer tourism location within the Caspian Sea region by expansio n of blue flag status to its tourist -attraction beaches. This involves rehabilitation of the Caspian Sea and establishment of a well -governed waste treatment management for nearby facilities. In addition to that, Baku also pursues to play a key part in Cas pian Sea cruise tours through daily -trips or longer trips with stop -overs at surrounding countries. On top of the traditional notion of tourism for natural beauties, cultural heritage and summer destinations, Azerbaijan aims to be known for leisure and spo rts tourism. Building upon its 22 existing massive -scale organizations, Azerbaijan will pursue to host more music festivals, international culture events and sports tournaments. . It will offer various discount shopping malls, restaurants, amusement parks and centers to ensure incoming tourists for the events can find high -quality entertainment activities. 23 5. TARGET INDICATORS In tourism sector, sixteen priorities are estimated to:  Increase Azerbaijan’s GDP by AZN 465 million in 2020, in real terms;   Add 36,600 total and 25,000 direct (in tourism sector) employment s by executing on its priorities, in Baku and other regions.  To achieve this impact, there are six intermediate targets identified for 2020:  Increase the number of nights spent by foreign tourists in hotels and hotel -like facilities in Baku in 2020 to a minimum of 3.65 million from estimated 0.8 million in 2015;   Increase the average length of stay per tourist from 2 to 3 days;   Increase the number of foreign tourists accommodated in hotels and hotel -like facilities in Baku from 0.5 million in 2015 to 0.9 million in 2020, and the number of non -accommodated foreign tourist s from 0.8 million in 2015 to 1.5 million in 2020;  Gradually accommodate 265 thousand incremental low -cost touris t arrivals;   Increase capacity utilization rate to 65% in wellness facilities, compared to current level of 40% (leverage of wellness facilities in Na ph talan is considered);   Attracting 180 thousand tourists to touristic attractions located along the “Silk W ay” and other cultural tourism routes.    24 6. STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES  Achieve more foreign tourist arrivals in Baku in the long term establishing an efficient governance mechanism in order to fully leverage Baku’s tourism potential, strengthen marketing and branding efforts, upgrade information on tourism attractions and improve tourism infrastructure ;  Simplify entry and exit on borders to create favo rable environment in the country, build coordinated activity among different players of tourism sector and achieve long term development introducing support mechanisms such as the creation of tourism and recreation zones;  Develop regional tourism under specific themes, i.e., wellness, winter, culture , business, eco -tourism and rural , to diversify Azerbaijan’s tourism offerings and to attract more tourists in the long term;  Achieve high satisfaction of tourists by establishing tourism quality system in order to upgrade quality and quantity indicators of services provided in the tourism sector. 25 7. STRATEGIC TARGETS 7.1. Strategic target 1. Realize Baku’s full tourism potential by attracting more international visitors To reach the next level of international recognition among business and leisure travelers alike and strengthen Baku ’s tourism stand, a National Tourism Promotion Bureau will be established to coordinate branding activities among the city’s relevant public and private organizations. The National Tourism Promotion Bureau will work with the Azerbaijan Republic Tourism Council, relevant governmental bodies and other organizations to upgrade information available about Baku, launch a promotional campaign in key target markets , commit resources to assisting entrepreneurs in expanding the number of budget accommodat ions options and build ing a robust tourist experience in the city center. These coordinated and focused efforts will help Baku to capture an important share from its potential demand pool that includes 26 cities with more than 90 million population, in sho rt haul flight distance. 7.1.1. Priority 1.1. Establish a National Tourism Promotion Bureau and ensure its operation first in Baku city Rationale Tourism to Baku represents a large piece of overall Azerbaijan ’s tourism. In 2014, Baku was home to 43 percent of the country’s available hotel rooms, 64 percent of accommodated tourists, and 83 percent of accommodation revenue (Exhibit 8). Exhibit 8. Indicators on Baku’s contribution to Azerbaijan’s overall tourism sector Source: State Statistical Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan However, the promotion v alue chain is highly fragmented: different destinations, planning organizations, transportation organizations, accommodations, and intermediaries (tour operators, restaurants, shopping malls, and so forth) all operate independently. Additional Baku Other Accommodated tourists (thous. Persons, 2015) Accommodation revenue (AZN. mn, 2015) Number of accommodation room available (thous. Persons, 2015) 26 measures will need to be taken in order to e nsure better coordination among these institutions and establish tourism branding of Baku city. Actions to be taken Action 1.1.1: Establish a National Tourism Promotion Bureau The e stablishment of National Tourism Promotion Bureau (hereinafter referred to as the Bureau ) will be reviewed to develop international image of Baku, prepare long term action plan for leveraging city branding, take control measure for use of the brand and coordinate the efforts of rebranding and marketing at different levels and increase tourist satisfaction. 12 Once it proves effective in providing the coordination of Baku tourism efforts, th is experience may be extended to other tourism destinations in Azerbaijan. The Bureau will prepare and submit proposals on brand strategy of Baku city. Action plan providing activities envisaged by this Strategy will b e prepared for 2017 – 2020 . A partial budget for the Bureau will be provided initially by the Azerbaijan government , and, as for the remaining budget, o nce the public -private partnership is established, the Bureau will consider other options for additional funding sources as specified in its charter . Action 1.1.2: Implement necessary organizational works to ensure the operation of the Bureau All necessary infrastructure arrangements will be carried out for the bureau ’s operation . To organize its efficient operation, t his will include creation of online communication platforms for establishing relationship with foreign media . Action 1.1.3: Implementation of different measures by the Bureau The Bureau will shape the brand of Baku city and its promotion at international level and it will also specify and approve indicators to oversee Baku City brand performance and relevant monitoring methodology. As part of the monitoring system, the Bureau will ensure high quality data collection and preparation of reliable tourism statistics, and efficient functioning of a registry for tourism infrastructure. The monitoring system and its results will be announced with press releases and will be made public through online communication platforms on a continuous basis and also actions will be taken to measure the satisfaction level of tourists visiting Baku . Using such online platform or relevant tools, complaints and proposals of tourists will be received and reviewed and if necessary, forwarded to respective bodies to take necessary measures. Action 1.1.4: Prepare a marketing and communication plan of Baku city for 2017 – 2020 Marketing and communication plan of Baku city for 2017 – 2020 will be developed with participation of the Bureau ’s representatives and other stakeholders. In order to attract foreign tourists from target groups specified in Priority 1.3, strategic directions such as the implementation of relevant marketing events will be defined on the basis of discussions. Where necessary, international partners with relevant experience could b e involved in the preparation of this plan. The plan will be disclosed to public via web site and press releases. 12 If established, the National Tourism Promotion Bureau will be responsible for implementation of measures planned for this body in the strategic road map, otherwise other relevant agency will take over these responsibilities. 27 Action 1.1.5: Create a tourism calendar for Baku City to coordinate the timing of all major events Creation of tourism calendar for Baku city will be reviewed each year, as specified by P riority 2.3, to coordinate the timing of all major events throughout the year and set a proper tourism policy and where necessary, coordination with relevant bodies will be established to make activities more e fficient in this area. Expected result and indicators Establishment of the Bureau , coordination of its activities and introduction of execution and oversight mechanisms are mainly enablers for all Baku related actions. This strategic priority is estimated to bring total of AZN 10 million, including AZN 5 million direct and AZN 5 million indirect GDP increase by 2020. Key Performance indicator is to increase the number of nights spent by foreign tourists in hotels and hotel -like facilities of Baku in 2020 t o 3.65 million nights from estimated 0.8 million nights in 2015. The establishment of the Bureau will also increase efficiency and collaboration of all tourism players in Baku city and overall cooperation across relevant organizations . The required investm ent There is no major investment need to implement this priority, as this is more a “coordination” process. The expected risks No special risks are expected for this priority. Nevertheless, failure in coordination of the Bureau ’s activities among respective private and public institutions might create risks of improper organization of the Bureau ’s operation in line with an action plan for 2017 – 2020 to be developed on the basis of the Strategic Roadm ap as well as difficulties in the use of resourc es. 7.1.2. Priority 1.2. Upgrade available information on tourism attractions in Baku and package tourism offerings Rationale Several websites popular among international tourists have information on Baku’s attractions and restaurants. The world’s most -used trave l website, Trip Advisor, offers information on 175 attractions and 389 restaurants in Baku, and since May 2016 users ha ve left more than 7,000 comments to aid other Baku visitors. 13 However, this figure seems to be smaller when compared to other neighboring competing cities of the region. Trip Advisor offers 50 percent more information on regional competitor Tbilisi (Exhibit 9). “Baku travel” is a slightly more popular search term than “Tbilisi travel” among Russian Google users, but not among English – and T urkish -speaking users. 13 According to information as of May 30, 2016 28 Exhibit 9. Search results in web sites “Tripadvisor.com” search results Search results in Google in various languages Source: State Statistical Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan Studies demonstrate that, once travelers get to Baku, they don’t always take advantage of all Baku has to offer. For example, in 2014 only 45 percent of foreign tourists who stayed in Baku visited the Maiden Tower 14. The reason is the insufficient level of awareness on tourism attractions of Baku city among international tourists. Currently Baku currently has one tourism information office in Baku city . A second one is planned to open in Seaside National Park in 2016 and the next information center in Icherisheher in 2017. Furthermore , Baku is currently home to more than 200 private tourism agencies, which focus 90 percent of their business on Azerbaijan ’s residents traveling abroad. 15 Along with increasing awareness o f tourists about touristic attractions available in Baku, it is also important to organize different new types of touristic events relevant to preferences of tourists from demand countries. Nowruz holiday is an important tourism opportunity for Azerbaijan. In general, each year Nowruz holiday festivals are organized in the territories of State Historical -Architectural Reserve “Icherisheher” and “Gala” Reserve. This holiday is one of the most important periods for many cultures in the region, and particularl y for Iranian tourists. Multiple countries already consider this period as an opportunity and have dedicated events an d programs as well as dedicated tourism packages to attract mainly Iranian tourists. It would be possible to attract more tourists if dedi cated events for Nowruz holiday would not just limited to the sites of the Reserves Icherisheher and Gala but also organized in other parts of the city. In this regard, dedicated tourism packages for Nowruz holiday could be prepared and promoted widely in countries where Nowruz is marked. Along with unique traditional values and attributes, Baku has many venues favorable for MICE (Meetings, international conferences, and events) tourism. Baku is home to more than 14 Figure is calculated based on the total number of foreign accommodated persons in Baku and number of visitors to Maiden Tower, according to figures from Statistical Committee of Azerbaijan Republic and the İch eriseher Administration. 15 Figure is calculated based on number of tours sold to Azerbaijan residents and international visitors. Baku # of listed attractions Tbilisi Baku Tbilisi Baku Tbilisi Baku Tbilisi Baku Tbilisi Baku Tbilisi # of listed restaurants # of comments, thousands Russian results, thousands Turkish results, thousands English results, thousands 29 15 large and midsize venues with available c onference and meeting rooms as well as more than 30 luxury hotels. 16 The city also has extensive infrastructure to support the international business community and other business functions. The Azerbaijan Convention Bureau , which was founded in 2013 under t he umbrella of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism based on public -private partnership, is a one -stop shop for these business assemblies. In 2016, Baku hosted its first Formula 1 Grand Prix (hereinafter F1 races ) race. As with many other large international sporting events, F1 races bring to their host countries more foreign visitors, increased length of stay, and increased spending – at large hotels and attractions as well as local businesses. Cities that hosted F1 races in 2011 recorded economic benefits between USD 40 million and USD 220 million. 17 Bahrain and Monaco, both of which constructed city tracks in 2011, realized economic benefits of USD 220 million and USD 90 million, respectively. Leveraging this exp erience, Baku could also increase economic benefits organizing different events before and after the F1 races. In addition, cities around the world encourage repeat visits and boost tourism revenue through shopping festivals, where city centers organize ev ents such as contests and shows – and sometimes governments even offer tax -free shopping -to attract throngs of shoppers. For example, shopping festivals in Kuala Lumpur and Dubai, which are held for weeks or months at a time, have increased both tourism s pending and tourist arrivals in those cities. Considering this experience, shopping festivals will also be held in Baku city. Azerbaijan will work to improve the coverage of Baku and nearby attractions in online major tourism media. Dedicated measures will also be taken to increase tourists’ awareness on touristic attractions of Baku after they arrived in the city. Actions items Action 1.2.1: Take measures towards creating online awareness and preventing difficulties frequently met by tourist s in order to ensure awareness among tourists about Baku at a sufficient level The Bureau will create and staff an online information team to attract tourists more effectively to Baku in the first place. Considering the increas ed use of online tools for information gather ed for tourism decisions, this team will ensure availability of satisfact ory information (photos, comments, directions etc ) related to Baku in major online travel platforms (e.g. Trip Advisor, Four Square, Lonely Planet), in English, Russian, Turkish, Arabic, Persian and others as priority languages. Moreover , the team will mon itor online platforms and search motors to conduct an assessment every half year to identify the level of coverage of tourism offerings (e.g., restaurants, hotels, historical and cultural attractions) and will take appropriate actions upon tourists’ repeat ed challenges (e.g. lack of tourist attraction signage, etc ). Action 1.2.2: Take measures to increase awareness among tourists visit ing Baku and further travelling to the regions Azerbaijan will continue to strengthen the coverage of these offices and expand their number, prioritizing placement in airports such as Baku and Gabala. In collaboration with and using funding from the Bureau , tourism information offices will further produce printed brochures 16 Including five – star hotels and boutique hotels 17 2011 is the most recent year in which financial data are available for the F1 Group. 30 and informational mat erials in English, Russian, Turkish, Arabic and Persian covering attractions in Baku and surrounding areas (4 hour distance) that will be available to tourists in bus stations, subway stations, and airport s. These offices will also expand the maps and publ ic transit information materials , which are available in Azerbaijani, into those languages and publish them accordingly . These materials will also be offered to hotels, shopping malls, major tourist attractions, and others for display and distribution to e nsure that visitors to Baku have the information they need to design their journey through Baku to their specifications and to take full advantage of the city’s offerings. To further improve on -the -ground attraction to Baku’s major tourist sites, these off ices will provide vouchers and discounted tickets to museums to tourists at airports and train stations when they enter the country. Action 1.2.3: Increase awareness on less visited attractions located in Baku city In collaboration with travel agencies, the Bureau will prepare tourism routes for less visited venues that would be interesting for tourists ( for example, “House Museum of Nobel Brothers”, House Museum of Tahir Salahov, Numismatics exhibition, etc.) and attract more visitors. In order to increase awareness on these routes, necessary information will be included into brochures and information materia ls indicated in Action 1.2.2. Action 1.2.4: Implement various su pport mechanisms by the Bureau The Bureau wi ll conduct workshops for private tourism agencies and new agencies to be established, and coach them on how to engage in more diverse international partnership opportunities with the goal of expanding their target audience to include more foreign visitors to Baku. Tourism agencies will also be encouraged to improve their on -the -ground visibility on major touristic places, main streets, airports, public transit stations, and major hotels. Action 1.2.5: Improve services provided by city tour transport vehicl es The reliability, coverage, and timeliness of Baku’s city sightseeing “hop -on, hop -off” bus services will be improved, and the services will be expanded to include routes with experienced tour guides and audio records available in both Russian and Engli sh. These services will include stops at attractions in the surroun ding area of Baku such as Yanar D ag, Gobustan Reserve and Mud V olcanoes . The Baku tourism offices will communicate these expanded offerings through the printed materials available to touris ts at the airport, hotels, and other relevant locations. Action 1.2.6: Take several measures to harness full potential of business travel to Baku To full y utilize opportunities from its infrastructure, harness the full potential of business travel to Baku and increase the number of meetings, international conferences, and events held in Baku, as well as in addition to measures provided for in Priority 3.4, the country will implement two additional measures: 1. Better utilization of the unique venues of Baku city: events can be held on the world’s oldest offshore oil platform, “Yanar Dag ” State Historic al-Cultural and Natural Reserve , with a natural gas fire th at has blazed on a hillside near Baku for decades, and “Ateshgah Temple” State Historical and Architectural Reserve located on an ancient subterranean natural gas field. 31 2. Attractive offerings to entice business travelers to bring their families and stay lon ger before and after events, in coordination with tour operators: the Bureau will coordinate with business tour operators serving incoming business travelers to provide family – friendly packages, including tours in Baku and surrounding area tours. The Burea u will also encourage the establishment of additional offerings that promote sports (for example, one -day tour s to Shahdag, a mountain resort) and beach and night offerings (for example, night clubs for foreign tourists, etc.). Action 1.2.7: Prepar e and promot e Nowruz holiday packages Offering dedicated tourism packages for target countries, as specified by Priority 1.3, is important to attract additional tourists from those markets. To benefit from the Nowruz period, the Bureau will encourage creating p ackage tours, bringing together accommodation and flight tickets on the eve of Nowruz holiday . In addition, it will organize various activities on the eve of Nowruz and include them into these packages to increase attractiveness of Azerbaijan and Baku part icularly. These could include open air festivities on Tuesda ys and during the holiday itself , performances of folk music from Azerbaijan and other countries in the region, and activities around preparation s of Nowruz tables. Promotion of these packages wil l be undertaken by the Bureau using external communication means based on online platforms created under Priority 1.1. Action 1.2.8: Hold different events during F1 races The F1 Organizing Committee and the Bureau will also bundle other types of sporting events with F1 races to increase the average length of tourist visits. An Azerbaijan Bicycle Tour, festivals, and motorsports -related events, such as those hosted in other regional host countries, are good options for the shoulder period before and after the main event. The F1 Organizing Committee will consider organizing various festivals and large exhibition s during F1 races as well as creat ing a local food and culture festival to coincide with F1 events. Promotio n of these packages will be undertaken by the Bureau using external communication means based on online platforms created under Priority 1.1. Action 1.2.9: Promotion of tourism services packages by the Bureau The Bureau will promote package tours in Baku including develop ing a Baku city tourist card for short term (24/48 hours) entrance to all touristic attractions and Baku city tourist buses. The Bureau will also facilitate regular monthly ‘tourism packaging’ events and workshops between agencies, transportation firms, hotels, art activities/museum management, MICE (meetings, international conferences and events) organizations and potential international partners to enrich current daily, weekly tourism packages. Promotion of these packages will be undertaken by the Bureau using external communication means based on online platforms created under Priority 1.1. 32 Action 1.2.10: Shopping festival packages Ministry of Culture and Tourism, in collaboration with public and private institutions, will develop a shopping festival to coincide with holiday periods in line with Baku tourism event calendar set forth in Priority 1.1. These measures will also include re tail shopping, artistic displays, parades, and other tourist shows such as beauty workshops with Naphtalan oil and Duzdag (Salt Mountain) of Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic. The festival will focus specifically on offering specialized Azerbaijani products s uch as craftsman copper items. To organize a shopping festival in Baku, Ministry of Culture and Tourism will prepare a relevant action plan. The Ministry will coordinate preparation of a strategic plan for the festival following four steps. First step will be the selection of the shopping festival ’s timing in line with public holidays in target markets (e.g. Iran, Russia, Georgia) that are specified in Priority 1.3 . Second, the Ministry will be hosting meetings with top 20 travel agencies in target markets and develop high end to very low end shopping tourism packages which will include hotel, transportation (train, bus or plane) and sightseeing. Third, it will create avenues for local production to participate in shopping festival and bring the local produc ers from regions where needed during festival period. Forth, once the festival is completed, it will conduct an assessment via collecting feedbacks from participants, tourism agencies, hotel and restaurants, and implement suggestions in next year’s shoppin g festivals. Action 1.2.11: Offer do -it-yourself online tourism packages in websites of local tour operators This will ensure opportunities for providing do -it-yourself online tourism packages that offer comprehensive travel option s including flights, hotels, car rentals, and tours through the website of local tour operators. Tourists will enter websites of tour operators to select the preferred flight direction, hotel and other services, which will help them to prepare a specific tourism package. This one -stop shop will up sell day tours, car rentals, tourist attractions, and event sales, supporting an increase in revenue per tourist. This do -it-yourself online tourism package will involve a partnership with local tou r agencies; a variety of hotels from budget to high -end options; car rental and shuttle services; and restaurants, museums, and attractions. The Bureau will start a joint project with local tour operators to promote all the available information and tourist service packaging. This project w ill increase Baku -related offerings in website s of tour operators and the Bureau and allow purchase of “do -it-yourself” packages. The website will have dedicated information page for Baku and its surrounding area, with offering of combined package deals, i ncluding airline tickets. For this purpose, a unified system will be established and integration of tour operators into this system will be provided. Action 1.2.12: Creat e specific tourist service packages for target count ries building on Baku’s and Azerba ijan’s unique value propositions The Bureau will organize the creation of specific tourist service packages for target countries identified in strategic priority 1.3, building on Baku’s and Azerbaijan’s unique value propositions. One such project will be potential creation of tourism packages for German tourists, with the package including tour of forme r German villages and settlements around 33 Azerbaijan. Promotion of these packages will be undertaken by the Bureau using external communication means based on online platforms created under Priority 1.1. Action 1.2.13: Prepare one or two -days travel package s from Baku to other regions via air transport Ministry of Culture and Tourism will support the arrangement of one or two -days tours for international tourists visiting Baku to areas with commercial airports specified in Priority 2.5 . Under collaboration with relevant agencies, this body will put efforts to enhance the time efficiency of flights from those airports. Expected results and result indicators Implementation of this priority is estimated to bring AZN 30 million direct GDP and AZN 20 million ind irect GDP, totaling AZN 50 million. Besides, it is estimated to create 6,100 employment s in tourism sectorial totaling 8500 employment by 2020. Key performance indicators:  Increase the number of foreign tourists accommodated in hotels and hotel -like facilities in Baku in 2020 to 0.9 million from estimated 0.5 million in 2015;   Increase the average len gth of stay per tourist from 2 to 3 days.  The GDP impact is assumed to be captured from additional accommodation and leisure spend due to longer stay of the tourists. Daily spend is assumed to stay at 195 AZN per person per day in real terms. Impact of additional tourist arrivals to Baku is assume d under Priority 1.3. As a result of implementing actions specified in this priority, e mployment is expected to increase due to tourist activity and travel agency growth, tourism information offices and media officer of the Bureau . Share of employment incr ease in Baku, proportional to economic impact is captured under this priority, while the rest is allocated to Priorities 1.3 and 1.4. The required investment To achieve this impact, there is a need for AZN 15 million one -time investment to serve new touri sts more effectively, prepare packages and organize festivals. Expected risks The potential risks associated with the implementation of this priority could mainly be the lack of financial resources. 7.1.3. Priority 1.3. Implement a Baku city promotion campaign Rationale There is plenty of room for growth in the amount of resources dedicated to marketing Azerbaijan to outside visitors. The existing marketing budget of Azerbaijan focuses on television advertising on international, business -oriented channels such a s Euro news and CNN International, capturing 58% of the total budget of marketing. Azerbaijan spends an 34 average of USD 7 million a year, resulting in an average marketing spend of USD 3.50 per tourist arrival, on par with regional counterparts (Exhibit 10 ).18 Exhibit 10. Indicators of marketing expenses in the region and other countries Source: World Tourism Organization, Annual Reports of National Tourism Authorities Furthermore , by pursuing a relevant marketing policy, the Bureau can boost the number of tourists and their average length of stay, with a focus on Baku tourism . By using the allocated funds, the Bureau will implement a Baku city promotion campaign that encompasses on line marketing, television advertising, and participation in tourism fairs, among othe r channels in selected cities. Action items Action 1.3.1: Select key target countries Studies on five key target countries identified as prime market opportunities for A zerbaijan will be undertaken as part of the analysis of existing situation in this Strategic Road map to implement the identified priorities in line with their predefi ned objectives, including enabling the Bureau to fully leverage B aku’s tourism potential and taking promotion measures to achieve these goals. Furthermore, list of priorities to implement promotion campaign for Baku city will be designed as provided for in Action 1.3.2 and the first promotion campaigns will be started from target countries wit h direct flight to Baku. In the event, the number of tourist arrivals from different countries go beyond a certain limit, new countries will be included into the list of priority countries. Once weekly flights are started, such promotion campaigns will ext ended to other target countries in short flight distance with Baku. 18 Marketing spend per tourist arrival is obtained from World Tourism Organization, National Tourism Authority Annual Reports. Canada 2014 -2015 Total marketing spend, USD mln Marketing spend/tourist arrival, USD Australia Japan Switzerland Portugal Ireland Egypt SAR At international level Malaysia Hungary Singapore Jordan The Netherland Maldives Island Turkey Azerbaijan At regional level 35 Action 1.3.2: Select target countries and cities In the first place , Azerbaijan’s neighboring countries will be a key market for targeted promotion of Baku tourism. Promotions will star t in high demand countries such as Georgia, Iran, Russia, and Turkey, prioritizing direct -flight cities such as Istanbul, Moscow, St. Petersburg and Frankfurt. Furthermore, several factors will be taken into account when markets are classified based on pri ority principle. Consideration of the following key criteria will bring in a maximum profit from investments in marketing activity. 1. Distance to country: Proximity to country as an important factor should also be taken into consideration in marketing campai gn . Priority markets are usually neighboring countries, which require less time and money for traveling. Citizens of countries of long distance will have to spend a more time and money for transport, which might cause their refusal from travelling. 2. Entry – exit procedures for foreign nationals, including attributes of visa regime or its inexistence: Complicated visa procedures, as well as strict border crossing regime are the major obstacles to tourism . Time spent for application to embassy and collection of multiple documents creates obstacles for tourists and affects their decision of tourism destination. In this regard, list of priority countries will include primarily the countries subject to application of either the visa -free regime or simplified visa p rocedures. 3. Transport connections: Direct air connectivity is a factor directly considered by tourists when tourism destination is selected . Low -cost air connectivity among countries is of great importance. 4. Economic welfare of countries: The wealthier popul ation a country has, the more money and time will be spent for foreign travels . 5. Number of population: The more population a country has, the higher number of people will travel abroad . Investments in development in such countries usually bring in greater impacts. 6. Internal political situation in the target market: In the event internal and international situation gets worsened, number of people willing to travel abroad as tourist might get dec reased . In this case, relevant amendments should be made to marke ting plans. 7. Language barrier: A language barrier is another factor affecting the tourism destination . Lack of language barrier simplifies visits of tourist from Russia, Turkey and similar countries to Azerbaijan. 8. Tourism aspiration of country population, a s well as need for offered products: Demand for tourism products in a country should be taken into account when marketing campaigned is planned . For example, European tourists prefer cultural tourism mainly, while tourists from Middle East opt for city tou r, shopping and hunting tours. Cultural and religious closeness might also affect the tourism destination. 9. Statistic dynamics: Statistic indicators on tourist arrivals serves an important indicator when marketing plans are designed and priority markets are identified . If the statistics of arrivals from different countries demonstrate constant growth, these markets should attached higher attention 36 Action 1.3.3: Pursue market research to implement promotion campaigns Under limited budget circumstances, efficient marketing strategy will be based upon differential approach. Certain funds will be provided depending on the correspondence of cities and countri es with the criteria set forth in Action 1.3.2. For this purpose, the potential markets will be divided into the following groups based on priority principle:  First category countries. This group will be included countries with great potential as tourism demand country, which meet the key criteria . Collaboration with th ese countries should be maintained in line with a predefined plan and specified budget.   Second category countries. This group will be composed of countries partly meeting the classification criteria . No predefined plan is required to launch cooperation wit h these countries. It is planned to implement one -time measures such as attendance in tourism exhibitions, organization of study visits for tourism sector representatives and journalists. These actions could also be organized via representative offices, an d project based approach could be introduced to maintain cooperation with them.   Third category countries. This group includes countries not meeting the majority of classification criteria . It is planned to implement promotion campaigns in this group of cou ntries mainly via electron ic marketing and international TV channels.  The Bureau will define and secure budget for market research and branding program. It will then reach out to established international market research and branding expert companies and h ire the best candidate to develop the campaign strategy. The work will include the conduct of a market research in Azerbaijan and also in target markets. Furthermore, analysis will be done to indicate top strengths as well as areas to improve for Baku city tourism. Brand image, logo, slogan advertisement videos for Baku city will be created in line with the results of this market research. Going forward, the market research will be repeated yearly, to identify Actions on improvement areas and learning of th e last year as an input to the Bureau . Baku’s promotion campaign will be tailored to each country and city to fully capture opportunities in each. Market research will ensure that promotional efforts are aligned with the realities of both supply (the compe titive landscape and Azerbaijan’s competitive edge etc ) and demand (regional proximity, socio -demographic profiles, tourist travel behavior etc ). The Bureau will engage tourism experts to perform market research to understand the preferences of current vis itors to Baku, increase volume and depth of tourism data collection, and define the value proposition of Baku for each target country. Action 1.3.4: Implement a Baku city marketing campaign in target cities hiring marketing and media planning companies The Bureau will implement Baku city marketing campaign in target cities, in line with the strategy. The Bureau will hire marketing and media planning companies to implement the campaign. The first step will be to define the budget and spending principles a nd rule s. Later, the campaign plan will be implemented every year, starting in 2017, in target cities and countries. The Bureau will set up KPIs for effectiveness of each marketing tool (e.g., online campaign, TV ads , etc .) and collect reports on effective ness of them separately. The budget allocation for mix of marketing tools used will be updated based on KPI assessment. Action 1.3.5: Identify marketing channels 37 A more diverse set of marketing channels will be required, however, to support the goals of the promotion campaign. The Bureau will focus on television channels, banner advertisements (outdoor campaign), international exhibitions, presentation in target markets, organization of study visits for foreign journalists and tourism sector representative s, digital marketing and social media campaigns, as well as popular television shows in target markets. A particular focus will be given to localization of campaign, based on thorough understanding of the target markets through market research ; an d the int ernational marketing agency and the newly established online marketing team within the relevant government body will assist in this effort. Action 1.3.6: Open tourism representative offices and organiz e their activity in diplomatic missions of Azerbaijan The Ministry of Culture and Tourism together with relevant government bodies will assign and ensure the activities of tourism representation offices in diplomatic missions of the Republic of Azerbaijan operating in target countries for the purpose of promo ting the tourism potential of the country and tourism products offered to global tourism market, as well as organiz ing the sale of these products and increas ing tourism arrivals in the country. An annual work plan will be designed to make activities more effective and planned. Expected results and result indicators Considering potential increase in number of tourist arrivals to Baku from target countries, it is estimated that the strategic priority can bring total of AZN 230 million GDP increase, includin g AZN 150 million direct and AZN 80 million indirect impacts. This impact excludes tourist arrivals due to family visits. In terms of employment, the increase in number of tourists is expected to bring total of 16,000 employment by 2020, including 11,500 d irectly in tourism sector. Key performance indicators:  Increase the number of foreign tourists accommodated in hotels and hotel -like facilities from 0.5 million in 2015 to 0.9 million in 2020 (this is also a key performance indicator of priority 1.2), and the number of non -accommodated foreign tourist s from 0.8 million in 2015 to 1.5 million in 2020.  As an additional impact that is not quantified here, marketing for Baku is expected to strengthen overall tourism demand towards regional tourism attractions, such as winter resorts or wellness tourism in Azerbaijan. The required investment Marketing campaign and tourism representation offices will require AZN 100 million total investment by 2020. Expected risks Lack of finance might be the main risk associat ed with the implementation of this priority. 7.1.4. Priority 1.4. Develop Baku’s tourism infrastructure, including low -cost accommodations and robust tourist areas Rationale 38 Baku is already one of the world -class business tourism destinations. To improve its appeal to certain segments, including budget and leisure travelers, it is necessary to build affordable accommodation facilities such as hotels and hostel guest houses in the center of Baku city. According to statistic indicators, from 2015 to 2016, currency depreciation alone caused a 30 percent decrease in the cost of accommodation in Baku. Therefore, in the first four months of 2016, average daily hotel rates dropped to USD 91, from a 2015 average of USD 130, thus setting the stage to pique to urist interest in visiting Baku (Exhibit 11 ). Exhibit 11. Average daily accommodation costs for different cities in 2015 – 2016 years (with USD) 1 1. Considering average indicators for first 4 months of 2015 and 2016 2. State Statistics Committee of the Republ ic of Azerbaijan reports Baku’s 20 15 average hotel rates as USD 111. In this analysis, STR Global’s figures are used to ensure full comparability with the information of other countries provided , within the same classification and definition Source: “STR Global” However, Baku’s average occupancy is lower than that of its European counterparts. According to statistical indicators, in the first four months of 2016, its hotel occupancy rate was 32 percent — half the European average(Exhibit 12). This low occupancy rate is partially due to the fact that Baku’s accommodation options are dominated by 4 – and 5 -star hotels, which appeal to business travelers but not necessarily the mass tourist market. Prague Moscow Belgrade Madrid Europe average Istanbul Rome Rome Baku 2 Baku 2 Prague Moscow Belgrade Madrid Istanbul Europe average 39 Exhibit 12. Occupancy rates of hotel s by cities 1. Figures estimated are based on prices of hotel rooms as of 2015. Source: “STR Global”, State Statistics Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan According to booking.com, 19 Baku has just 49 options available for USD 50 or less per day and 5 options for USD 20 or less per day – compared with 184 options and 33 options, respectively, in peer city Tbilisi. Similarly, Airbnb.com – an online platform for local residents to rent out their home to visitors – lists 96 options at USD 50 or less in Baku but 400 options at t he same price point in Tbilisi. 20 The lack of less -expensive options likely prices out many travelers who would otherwise come to Baku. However, according to international best practices, tourists are drawn to destinations that offer a unique experience, fr om hotels, restaurants, and museums to shopping, iconic structures, and local bazars. Baku’s city center has many such assets to offer. As an example, the followings could be named: Seaside National Park stretches 15 kilometers along the glittering Caspian Sea, the history of “Icherisheher ” State Historical and Archite ctural Reserve dates back centuries , Neftchiler Avenue features a variety of high -end shops inside historic buildings , a yacht club in Baku offers the opportunity to sail the Caspian Sea , besi des , excursions to stops at attractions in the surrounding area of Baku such as “Gobustan ” State Historical Arts R eserve, Yanar Dag Natural Reserve, Temple of Ateshgah, etc. It is possible to achieve an increase in touristic visits to Baku’s attractions ex panding the accommodation alternatives proposed at affordable costs. 19 Booking.com is a popular website for booking travel accommodations 20 All figures presented are obtained on May 2016. Air bnb search is based on the criteria of one private room for two people for one night. Prague Moscow Madrid Europe average Rome Baku Belgrade Istanbul Occupancy rate of hotels, 2016 January -April, % Hotel pricing and quality tiers Not classified  3 stars 4+ stars Avail able rooms in Baku 1 40 Action items Action 1.4.1: Prepare an action plan for funds to be allocated to tourism sector by the National Fund for Entrepreneurship Support To appeal to a larger tourist market , a portion of the National Fund for Entrepreneurship Support will be directed to entrepreneurs wishing to translate living space into mini hotels as well as the development of low – and mid -range hotels in a designated district. For this purpose, the amount of the funds for the tourism sector to be allocated by the National Fund for Entrepreneurship Support will be specified. In this direction, the implementation of complex measures by the Ministry of Economy in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism will be initiated, and meetings and workshops will be organized between hotel representatives, tourism SME representatives, international partners and investors, entrepreneurship NGOs, the Bureau , National Fund for Entrepreneurship Support and oth er relevant organizations to determine the spending patterns of the fund s including defining more precisely the list of activity and entrepreneurship types and organizing the efficient operation of the tourism sector in future . Specifically, the fund ing limit per beneficiary and allocation of total yearly budget between low -cost accommodation (including transforming houses to mini hotels) and tourist activities (e.g. art activities, hand crafts like handmade copper products) will be decided. In addition , the target number of credit beneficiaries per year (including those who benefit from opportunities created by obtaining the credits) will be set , and at the same time, opportunities to finance investment projects submitted by local businesses to the Nat ional Fund for Entrepreneurship Support will be evaluated and appropriate actions plan will be prepared when deemed expedient. There will be also dedicated efforts by the Bureau to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) to expand options at different pric e levels for accommodation to avoid a potential underutilization threat for hotels. Action 1.4.2: Prepare a promotion campaign plan with regard to us ing the funds of the National Fund for Entrepreneurship Support in 2017 – 2020 The approved 2017 – 2020 promotion plan on use of funds allocated to tourism sector will be declared in the websites of the National Fund for Entrepreneurship Support, Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Bureau . The National Fund for Entrepreneurship S upport and the Bureau will lead marketing efforts with publicity via major TV channels, daily newspapers and websites. In addition, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism will then oversee disbursement of the funds allocated to tourism sector in line with yea rly f unds budget and every half -year and provide status updates to the public on the usage of the funds and their impact. Action 1.4.3: Organiz e different events in Baku to promote unique values and products, as well as handcraft samples of Azerbaijan The Bureau will launch an effort to promote unique values and products of Azerbaijan in Baku. In this direction, the Bureau will further strengthen its tourism potential by preparing an action plan for projects to support the development of a range of service s such as : souvenir shops in Icherisheher and along Seaside National Park ; music, dance, and other art activities along main streets; local restaurants with entertainment activities such as local dances; daily boat and yacht tours of the Caspian Sea. The Bureau will organize additional set of meetings 41 with handcraft artists in Baku or surrounding regions, municipality representatives, in coordination with the Baku City Brand Bureau , to identify focus products and locations , and it will ensure visibility of these products to tourists via including them in the city marketing campaign provided for in Priority 1.3, and provide other types of support for development of activities. Action 1.4.4: Prepare an action plan for the promotion of beach tourism after 2020 A working group will be established by the Tourism Council in participation of the representatives of the Council and government bodies to undertake studies on development of beach tourism in Baku and surrounding areas, as well as in areas along the Casp ian Sea. Where necessary, external and local consultants will be involved in this work. Upon the result of studies, an action plan will be developed to involve investors, create infrastructure and implement other measures. Action 1.4.5: Assess big flagship projects for Baku The Council will conduct a feasibility study for several big projects in order to increase the number of tourism venues in Baku and evaluate the benefits they may bring. Creation of big tourism attractions, including development of unique proposals such as miniature sites park in Baku and Azerbaijan wil l be ensured. Action 1.4.6: Create dedicated infrastructure, including “Duty free” shops The Ministry of Culture and Tourism may consider facilitating of targeted infrastructure projects to improve value proposition for the tourism packages highlighted in strategic Priority 1.2. The primary project for the evaluation will be the establishment of duty free shopping malls in areas on the border between Azerbaijan and Russia . Action 1.4.7: Create necessary conditions for building popular brand hotels in Baku The Ministry of Culture and Tourism will develop an action plan to attract popular brand hotels to the country in the light of impacts of the construction of brand hotels on the country ’s economy, including construction of accommodations by foreign invest ors in Baku and surrounding areas. As the result of these measures, a competition would increase among hotels, which would cause a rise in service level and decrease in prices. Action 1.4.8: Prepare proposals to offer university dormitories as accommodatio n to tourists in summer seasons and implement relevant promotion campaign s The Council will prepare proposals to offer to tourists university dormitories located in Baku as accommodation at affordable prices , with the consent of relevant government bodies, and take relevant measures and implement a promotion campaign if deemed expedient by relevant government agencies. Expected results and indicators The strategic priority is estimated to have potential to bring AZN 45 million direct GDP increase by 2020, through additional low -cost tourist arrivals, and an additional AZN 25 million indirect GDP increase, totaling AZN 70 million GDP increase. This impa ct assumes that low -cost room share will remain at the current level of 30% of total accommodation by 2020. Besides, it is estimated to open 4,500 employment directly in tourism sector, while this priority is estimated to create 6,200 total employment by 2 020. 42 Key Performance Indicators:  Accommodate 265 thousand incremental low -cost tourist arrivals. These tourist are estimated to spend 70% of current average for accommodation and leisure.  Required investment For the construction of new facilities and fla gman project s, a total investment of AZN 100 million will be required. Expected risks The biggest risks that might arise in implementation of this priority might be difficulties in allocation of funds by the National Fund for Entrepreneurship Support and m isspending of these funds. 7.2. Strategic target 2. Implement Key Enablers to Develop Tourism in the Country Five enabling factors will create further opportunities for Azerbaijan and clear its way to attract a larger share of the global and regional tourism market. These key enablers will be vital to realizing the potential of Azerbaijan’s tourism strategic priorities. 7.2.1. Priority 2.1. Establish Tourism Council Rationale Implementation of the actions within this Strategic Roadmap necessitates a high level of coordination among stakeholders in the sector. Currently, necessary reforms to realize the strategic priorities fall under the jurisdiction of different governmental bodies. In addition, high involvement from private sector and civil society organizations will be required to increase effectiveness of the reforms. In similar situation, many countries adopted national tourism agencies to ensure high -level coordination and focus around dedicated programs. There are various successful implementation cases of na tional tourism agencies, such as those of Dubai, Italy, Spain and Turkey. Since 2001, the government’s tourism policy in Azerbaijan is implemented by the Ministry of Culture of Tourism. To successfully implement the tourism policy and reforms , it became ne cessary to establish the Tourism Council of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Under the Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan No. 2295 dated 01 September 2016 “On additional measures for the development of tourism in the Republic of Azerbaijan”, the Tourism Council of the Republic of Azerbaijan (hereinafter referred to as the Tourism Council) was established in order to undertake an analysis of current situation in tourism sector, take necessa ry measures to overcome problems in the area and coordinate the implementation of responsibilities delegated to relevant government bodies. 43 Action item s Action 2.1.1: Ensure the operation of the tourism council The Tourism Council will organize its acti vity based on a charter and its composition to be approved by Presidential Decree and the Charter will define the goals, functions, objectives and Secretariat of the Tourism Council. Action 2.1.2: Establish working groups in order to build proper coordinat ion for the development of tourism sector In order to develop the tourism sector, the Tourism Council will establish working groups composed of the representatives of different government bodies. Where necessary, local and foreign experts and representatives of civil society organizations could also be involved in the work of these working groups. Working groups responsible for the promotion of tourism will also be created with the involvement of relevant stakeholders to properly specify touris m incentives, including supporting tourism investment projects and determining opportunities , tax, customs incentives and privileges . Action 2.1.3: Review the strategic roadmap priorities and propose necessary changes to the existing programs for the launc h of its execution The Council will review the strategic roadmap priorities and propose necessary changes to existing programs to launch its execution. It will define execution al priorities for relevant stakeholders for short term and address bottlenecks raised by participants towards the priorities. Action 2.1.4: Establish a monitoring system for the execution of priorities The Council will establish a monitoring system for the execution of strategic priorities. It will collect regular data on the progres s, and continuously communicate this information to the public. Expected results and indicators Establishment of the T ourism Council will be a key enabler for implementation of the priorities in this Strategic R oadmap, towards achieving highlighted objectives. The Council will be a key enabler for success of all other strategic initiatives, thus does not have a direct GDP or employment impact. Required investment The strategic initiative has no major investment requirement. Expected risks The risk factor for this priority might be failure in ensuring necessary efficiency in coordination required for its implementation. 7.2.2. Priority 2.2. Create Tourism Recreation Zones (TRZ s) Rationale This Strategic Roadmap is structured around two objectives: to develop tourism in Baku and in regions for specific sub -sectors, in addition to the sector wide enablers. For successful implementation of the priorities to achieve highlighted objectives, there should be a fo cused 44 approach to the development of the sector. In addition, rapid development in the regions could require a focused management effort and geography specific intervention. One approach to ensure that is to create tourism recreation zones (TRZs) in such g eographies. The creation of TRZs will enable the protection of environment and historical heritage in those respective areas ; extensive and efficient use of tourism potential in the specific region, creation of favorable investment environment; additional employment in the regions; service quality improvement and wider range of tourism products; comprehensive data collection and reporting regarding tourism activity; more efficient implementation of governance, regulation and coordination activities, develop ment of wide -range and high quality tourism infrastructure aligned with modern standards Several actions will be undertaken to create TRZs in appropriate regions, form a governance structure and develop the existing TRZs . Action items Action 2.2.1: Establ ish the governance structure of TRZs In order to govern TRZs, t he Ministry of Culture and Tourism will create a governance board in accordance with relevant procedures. This TRZ governance board will include representatives from relevant governmental bodi es , representatives from local municipalities, legal land owners in the area, and representatives of enterprise owners. During the selection of business entities included into the governance structure, preference will be given to representative who made si gnificant contribution to tourism activities in tourism and recreation zones. Action 2.2.2: Establish the activities of TRZs in line with tourism cluster The Ministry of Culture and Tourism will prepare a strategic plan to define tourism cluster at macro level for each zone to ensure more efficient use of tourism potential in the territories of tourism recreation zones (TRZs). In accordance with tourism clusters, master and current plans of zones will be developed and proposals of stakeholders interested i n the development of tourism will be taken into account. Creation of tourism services infrastructure in accordance with tourism clusters in the TRZs will raise sustainable activity, efficient governance, high quality services and attractiveness for tourist s. Action 2.2.3: Development of TRZs The governance structure will ensure the preparation of master and current development plans as specified in the Action 2.2.2. The development plans will include detailed plans for sustainable development of tourism in frastructure, define and secure financial resources with a focus on private sector investment, marketing and communication plans. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism will set up a monitoring mechanism for the execution of master and current development pla ns. Action 2.2.4: Prepare and publish annual development plans for TRZs The governance structure will prepare and publish annual development plans for the TRZs. The development plans will include detailed plans for development of tourism infrastructure and consider allocating financial resources for the development of the private sector and marketing objectives . 45 Action 2.2.5: Conduct a study to create new TRZs The Ministry of Culture and Tourism will conduct a study to define set of regions or locations towards the western, north -western and Sou thern directions of Azerbaijan to be designated as TRZs . This study will set strategic goals of the zones , and detail o ut geographical scope and functional focus of the TRZs, in line with objectives outlined in this Strategic Roadmap. Action 2.2.6: Set up a monitoring mechanism for execution of annual development plans The Ministry of Culture and Tourism will set up a moni toring mechanism for execution of annual development plans and conduct necessary reviews to achieve strategic goals, objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs). Expected results and indicators Creation of TRZs according to the tourism cluster will b e a key enabler for achievement of objectives of the Strategic Roadmap and major investment is required in their creation, governance, as well as development. Major milestones for the strategic initiative is the creation of TRZs, preparation of annual deve lopment plans and set up of the monitoring mechanism. KPIs determined as part of the monitoring system will be adopted as key KPIs for the strategic priority itself. The required investment Develop ing action plan s for a tourism center with 4 thousands bed places in Khizi -Khachmaz, Guba and Gusar tourism and recreation zones in the North , their design ing and project management will require AZN 1.8 million investment at the initial stage . To i dentify areas to declare new tourism and recreation zones in the Western, North -western and Southern regions, 1 million AZN is requited for producing 1:25000 scale topographic maps, prepare cadastral maps with ownership data, prepare land structure maps and fe asibility study of zones, as wells as for the preparation of macro development plans. Expected risks Financial difficulties are main risk factors for the implementation of these priorities. 7.2.3. Priority 2.3. Develop Regional Tourism Service In frastructure for Domestic and International Tourists to resolve seasonality problem in tourism Rationale Because of periodical changes in the seasons, tourism sector is affected by seasonal impacts and therefore the tourism travels are divided into high, middle and low seasonal periods . In addition to natural climate factors, high tourism seasons are also observed during national and religious holidays, vacations, mass sports events, etc. In high, mid and low tourism seasons resulted by both the natural climate and other factors, the tourism industry faces with certain difficulties (higher prices in high tourism seasons, overloading of tourism centers, decrease in revenues in lower tourism seasons, unemployment, etc .). At present, foreign tourists visit Azerbaijan primarily during summ er and winter seasons, Nowruz holiday and in a period when some international events are held in the country. There is a traditional summer tourism season in the country. Since 2012, the country offers a winter 46 season opportunities as well. Domestic touris m gets more active in the country during the official holidays and weekends . However, Azerbaijan has a potential to involve tourists throughout the year in majority of tourism sub -segments. For this purpose, the seasonality problem should be resolved to in crease the efficiency and quality of tourism sector in the country, which requires an optimal use of the existing resources. To sum up, relevant measures will be carried out to solve seasonality problem in the tourism sector. Action items Action 2.3.1: Cr eate a tourism calendar for Baku City and later for the entire country The Ministry of Culture and Tourism, together with the Council will create a tourism calendar for Baku City and later for entire country and will ensure that tourists visit the cities in an planned and coordinated manner in all seasons . Tourism event calendar will be a document containing the organization of international events in Baku throughout the year which will cause interest of tourists, as well as the arrival of tourists at leas t from 20 countries. The tourism calendar will be designed based on responses to surveys set to relevant bodies, and later the relevant government body will immediately be informed if the organization of any new event is planned. The p reparation of the tou rism calendar for each year will be launched from the second half of the previous year and beginning from the 1 st January the calendar will be placed in noticeable places of websites under public property of the Republic of Azerbaijan and on the online pla tform of the Council. The tourism calendar will be translated into the official languages of the United Nations and into local languages of countries where Azerbaijan has deployed diplomatic missions. The compilation of the tourist calendar and resolution of all relevant issues will be implemented based on a set of rules, and actions to prepare calendars for Baku and regions will be taken into account. The tourism calendar of Baku city could be created in 2017, while the tourism calendar for the entire country will be prepared in 2018. Action 2.3.2: Promot e tourist arrivals in all tourism sub -segments (wellness, environmental, business, rural, etc.) in low seasonal periods During the low tourism season, wellness tourism opportunities set in Priori ty 3.1 will be used more. The c reation of more attractive offerings to national parks during low tourism seasons, as set forth in Priority 3.5 , and inclusion of events and tours offered by this priority into marketing events of non -seasonal period, as well as expanding of the interests in rural touris m during the agricultural harve sting period will be implemented . According to the Priority 3.4, the country will conduct studies and prepare proposals to introduce a policy of organizing international events pa rticularly during the non -seasonal period. Action 2.3.3: Support events and projects reducing seasonality in tourism promotion policies of the Republic of Azerbaijan According to Priority 1.4, the priority will be to allocate the tourism funds mainly to to urism projects reducing the seasonality. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism will prepare proposals studying the rooms for introduction of incentives for tourism business entities during the low tourism seasons. Action 2.3.4: Preference to non -seasonality in Baku city marketing campaigns 47 According the Priority 1.1, the marketing and communication plan to developed for Baku for 2017 – 2020 will give preference to the organization of promotion campaigns supporting the tourists arrivals from target countries set forth in Priority 1.3., during the low tourism seasons. Action 2.3.5: Move the hunting season to the low tourism season in compliance with relevant requirements The Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources will undertake relevant studies to issue pe rmits to hunting during l ow tourism season and the list of animals allowed for hunting will be prepared. In order to attract tourists, it will be offered to hunt these animals during the l ow tourism season. Action 2.3.6: Promot e non -seasonal tourism in TRZ s According the Priority 2.1, the creation of TRZs, preparation of their master plans, preparation of tourism clusters will place a priority on the events likely to reduce seasonality in these areas. Expected results and indicators This priority will be important in achieving the objectives set by other priorities, but will not have a direct impact on GDP and the employment. The required investment No major investment is required for the implementation of this priority. The expected risks There is no special risk factor for this strategic priority. 7.2.4. Priority 2.4. Simplify and expedite vi sa processes and border crossing procedures Rationale Due to national security preferences, Azerbaijan’s visa requirements surpass those of region countries (Exhibit 13) . As mentioned earlier in this roadmap, recent change in visa on arrival status for United Arab Emirates (UAE) citizens has paid off for Azerbaijani tourism. In July 2016, ten times more visitors from UAE arrived to Azerbaijan compared to 2015. This change is an important indicator demonstrat ing potential of easier visa processes to develop tourism in the country. 48 Exhibit 13. Visa requirements applied to key tourism demand countries by Azerbaijan and several other countries of the region 1. Excluding Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic Azerbaijan requires visas prior to arrival for visitors from many of the country’s main target markets , however, a recent Decree of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan No. 923, date d0 1 June 2016, on “Simplification of e -visa issuance processes” and “establishment of ASAN Viza system” paved the way to improv ing Azerbaijan’s e -visa process. The p revailing number of both foreigners and persons without citizenship at border crossing points, who visit Azerbaijan for touristic and other reasons, especially during tourism seasons, as well as increased number of travels by the country ’s citizens during this period and shorter working hours at some border crossing points lead to waiting delays and time loss, which ultimately cause s intensity in processing . Azerbaijan needs to regulate issues such as easier and faster organization of border crossing on state borders, issuing visas at border crossing points to tourists arriving in the country via road and sea transport, etc. These changes are an important indi cator to further develop tourism sector in the country and increase international tourists arrivals and simpli fy visa processes and border crossing procedures. Russia Turkey Georgia Iran1 Key countries for Azerbaijan’s tourism Azerbaijan Turkey Georgia Neighbor countries Gulf countries Mass tourist source countries CIS countries Iraq Bahrain Saudi Arabia Qatar UAE EU UK USA Canada China Japan Uzbekistan Kazakhstan Belarus Ukraine Turkmenistan Visa on arrival / no visa Visa prior to arrival 49 Azerbaijan will explore appropriate actions to strike a balance between national security concerns and eased visa requirements for visitors from top target countries set in priority 1.3, that are critical to the tourism industry, as well as simplifying and expediting the e -visa process. Action items Action 2.4.1: Review the simplification of vi sa issuing mechanisms in international airports, as well as at border crossing points To use the opportunity to increase accessibility to Azerbaijan for tourists to the full extent, related governmental bodies will work in collaboration to assess making v isas available to tourists upon arrival from top tourism and potential growth markets. Such assessment will consider the security concerns as well. For this purpose, a working group will be established within the Tourism Council to come up with proposals o n easing visa issuing procedures for tourists arriving from target countries, by taking into account security concerns . An analysis will be conducted to identify benefits, risks and risk mitigation methods of visa on arrival system and benchmark examples a round the world. In a similar direction, Azerbaijan will assess easing visa requirements for the nanny -housekeepers , who are non -nationals, travelling alongside with the families they serve (especially for Middle Eastern countries ). In this direction, Azerbaijan will assess providing visa on arrival for these employees, as long as they hold a valid working permit in the country they serve for their employer -families. In line with the recommendation from the analysis, relevant government bodies will impl ement necessary changes related to the countries. The results will be published via webpage of Ministry of Foreign affairs, newspapers and other channels, and will be communicated to relevant countries via formal channels. Action 2.4.2. Introduc e self -serv ing kiosks for the visa on arrival tourists where tourists can fill the forms directly from kiosks Expansion of visa on arrival system will involve applying several innovations in airports and border crossing points in Azerbaijan . The relevant government bodies will facilitate introduction of innovative practices such as self -serving kiosks for the visa on arrival tourists where tourists can fill the forms directly from kiosks. Payment via credit cards will also be accepted. The main goal here is to reduce the duration of issuing electronic visa by two working days as in other regional countries . Action 2.4.3: Improve e – visa issuing process “ASAN Viza” system will enable foreign tourists visiting Azerbaijan to obtain visa without tourism agencies. In addi tion, as the result of joint activity of respective government bodies, tourist visa issuing processes will get simplified. Thus, this will include revising the requirements of a stamped and signed hotel con firmation, an invitation letter and a declaration for leisure tourists as well as implementing stamped visas instead of submitting electronic versions of documents and full -page visas. The established working group will work together with the State Agency for Public Service and Social I nnovations under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan to further improve easiness and quickness of the e -visa system Action 2.4.4: Take necessary measures to ensure fast crossing for foreigners and persons without citizenship at border crossing poin ts 50 In order to keep informed about intensity at border crossing points, electronic information boards displaying the level of intensity in state border stations will be installed in areas close to the state border and at road intersections on the way to regions from Baku city. This information will be updated regularly. In order to reduce waiting instances and the result ant time losses, eliminate intensity and increase tourist satisfaction and inflow into the country, Azerbaijan will take all necessary measures to ensure fast crossing for foreigners and persons without citizen ship at border crossing points. Expected results and indicators Increase in number of tourists due to easier visa processes can increase GDP directly by AZN 20 million by 2020, an d have AZN 10 million indirect GDP impact, totaling to AZN 30 million increase. Key performance indicator is to increase the number of incoming tourists due to easier visa processes (Potential increase from Iranian tourists is already captured in previou s clauses and is not mentioned here ). The strategic priority’s employment impact would be only indirect. It is critical to note that the easier visa processes will be an enabler for other priorities, in addition to the increase of tourist arrivals from marke ts listed here. The required investment There would be no major investment required to achieve the impact. The expected risks Implementation of this priority has several political and security risks. Separate country -based evaluations should be undertaken when this priority is implemented, therefore full security of arrival and departure points should be ensured. 7.2.5. Priority 2.5. Improve air connectivity to major source markets Rationale International experience shows that there is a strong correlation between a city’s airline connections and the number of tourist arrivals. Increase of international flights in international airports is correlated with a rise in the number of tourist arrivals. 21 Increasing the number of airports wi th direct flights to Azerbaijan would boost the number of tourist arrivals. The liberalization of Azerbaijan air services will create an attractive environment for both low -cost carriers and national airlines, thus increasing the number of tourists to Azer baijan and the economic impact of the tourism industry . Azerbaijan will select the level of liberalization on a case -by -case basis with different countries. 33 per cent increase in the number of foreign tourists from 2010 to 2015 demonstrates the use of a ir transport by tourists .22 The majority of Azerbaijan’s flight connections are with such neighboring countries as Georgia, Iran, Russia, and Turkey . Return flights from countries comprised 74 percent of Azerbaijan’s total flights in 2015. 21 Information is obtained from the World Bank 22 Source: State Statistics Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan 51 In addition to in creasing the number of flights and direct connections, Azerbaijan would benefit from aligning flight options with the needs of weekend travelers, who prefer inbound flights on Fridays during the day and outbound flights on Sunday afternoons. Baku’s weekend travel options are robust (more than three options on Fridays and Sundays) for only two connecting cities – Istanbul and Moscow. 23 Exhibit 14. Indicators for each type of transport used by tourists arriving in Azerbaijan and the number of cities with direc t flight connection (by countries) 1. Considering 2015 flights: active at least 7 months during 2015 Source: Diio Mi flight database, State Statistics Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan With 28 thousand aircraft movements in 2015 and world -class infrastru cture, Heydar Aliyev International Airport is Azerbaijan’s busiest airport . However, Azerbaijan has readily available infrastructure to increase international and domestic traffic not only in Baku but also in regional destinations (Exhibit 14). Azerbaijan has six commercially active and international level airp orts: Baku, Ganja, Nahkcivan, La nkaran, Gabala, and Zaqatala. These and other airports around the country have capacity to increase aircraft movements (Exhibit 15). 23 Information is obtained from Expedia.co m, skyscanner.com, as of May 30, 2016 Russia Turkey Georgia Iran Number of cities with direct flight 1 Others Total Air Road Other Transport method 2015, thousands Majority is from Iran and Georgia border 33% increase in 2010 -2015 years Neighbors 52 Exhibit 15. Map of airports and nu mber of aircraft movements in Azerbaijan Source: Airports Council International Exhibit 16. Minimum return ticket fare for Baku and competitor tourism cit ies 1(US Dollar /mile) 1. Return ticket fare calculated based on 2 -3 nights stay in the travelled country in 2 weeks from search date. Lowest direct flight cost. Source: “Expedia.com”, “skyscanner.com” (information as of 30 may 2016) With few airli nes serving Azerbaijan, ticket prices have remained relatively high (Exhibit 16). In other markets, competition among airlines has driven prices down and given consumers more options for travel. Lankaran Airport name Gabala Ganja Nakhchivan Baku Aircraft movement, 1 thousands Commercially active Airports available Moscow From To Moscow Tehran Tehran Dubai Dubai Istanbul Baku Baku Baku Baku Istanbul Istanbul Istanbul Istanbul Tbilisi Number of airline alternatives 53 Exhibit 17. Key indicators for airlines 1. Return flights in first week of August 2016 for 3 nights trip, 1 person. Calculated based on prices in March 2016 2. Every airport is assumed as destination. Source: Diio Mi flights data base Almost across the board, air prices are higher for tourists coming from neighboring countries to Baku compared with those flying to other city tourism destinations in the region (Exhibit 17). So, liberalization in air connectivity is necessary. Action items Action 2.5.1: Create a working group to achieve agreement in liberal air transport in parallel with the marketing and communication plan of Baku city for 2017 – 2020 set out in the Priority 1.1 To increase tourist arrivals, Azerbaijan will analyze the various liberalization mechanisms for air services to and from target markets set out in the Priority 13 and select high demand countries among the priority countries . In order to achieve progress in the measures taken in this direction, with participation of respective bodies, a working group to be created within th e Tourism Council will put forward proposals on countries and regions to be incorporate d in liberalized air service agreements. Based on those proposals, agreements will be signed and aviation regulations will be amended appropriately in line with European Aviation regulations when necessary . The Ministry of Culture and Tourism will also analyze and come up with proposals towards providing marketing support and taking incentivizing actions by the government to launch flight s in other directions in order to further increase the number of tourist arrivals and to achiev e sustainable profitability. Action 2.5.2: In order to increase the number of airline companies in Azerbaijan, support creation of airline companies and national airline companies offering afford able prices Encouraging competition and increasing the number of flights would reduce fares, especially to short -haul destinations , create an appealing environment for low -cost carriers . In order to leverage this environment and benefit as much as possible from temporary government incentives on selected routes, the establish ment of national low -cost carrier s will be considered . Azerbaijan will consider establishing this low -cost carrier based in Azerbaijan Ticket price USD/km More than one airline Only AZAL Flights Lowest available return price to Baku 1 Number of Destinations 2 Distance miles 2 or more Number of carriers 54 and operat ed either under AZAL or as a separate enterprise (a legal entity with the majority of its shares being state -owned)as well as incentivizing it through lower fares for airport use , and also sectorial reforms and incentives to ma ke Azerbaijan more attractive for airline companies will be considered . The signing of Cape Town Treaty, which is an international agreement that aims to reduce costs for investment in moveable property such as aircraft by standardization, will be evaluate d as part of this effort. In addition, customs and tax environment will be assessed as a key consideration to increase competition. State Civil Aviation Administration will target increasing number of airlines and for that purpose invite major low cost and national airlines from the region to working meetings in facilitation of actions to be undertaken in this direction. The Administration will identify challenges of increasing number of flights for the airlines and develop inaction plan to address those challenges together with the Tourism Council. State Civil Aviation Administration will incentivize particularly routes that have potential to become profita ble with higher volume but need support for ramp -up period, with marketing support and reduced taxes. It will also evaluate sector wide business environment and incentive structure and ta ke necessary actions to improve . Action 2.5.3: Optimize flight schedules for existing flights, to better address expectations of weekend travelers to Ba ku (from city marketing and communication campaign countries set out in Priority 1.3) The working group established in accordance with the Priority 2.5.1 will meet with the Council every quarter. This team will optimize flight schedules for existing flight s, to arrange more convenient weekend flights and to better address expectations of weekend travelers to Baku (from city marketing and communication campaign countries set out in Priority 1. 1). Action 2.5.4: Identify the current level of service in the re gional airports of Azerbaijan and assess needs for airport expansions and take measures to implement investments in airports for 2020 – 2025 The working group will launch a n appropriate study to identify current level of service in the regional airports o f Azerbaijan and assess needs for airport expansions. At the same time, the working group will ensure 2020 -2025 airport investment plans will in line with developments in the tourism sector, and develop a business case with local and international partners and investors for using Zabrat airport as low cost airlines’ airport. Action 2.5.5: Evaluate options to establish strategic partnerships at national level with major airlines, resort chains or travel companies To strengthen connectivity of Azerbaijan and promote its tourism in target markets more effectively, Azerbaijan will also consider direct collaboration projects with major tourism companies in the world. This could not only support Azerbaijan’s efforts to improve its connectivity to the key markets, but also bring in critical volume of visitors to increase utilization on these routes. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism will evaluate options to establish strategic partnerships at national level with major a irlines, resort chains or travel companies and assess various models, and alternative target companies to achieve the most effective collaboration model, to accelerate efforts in this roadmap. It will set objectives for such partnership, including improvem ent of air connectivity and promotion of Azerbaijan tourism through different 55 channels. It will then set specific criteria for evaluation and scan the global sector for potential partners. Partnership options will be assessed with these criteria and execut ed in case of clear benefit to the sector in medium and long term. Expected results and indicators Increased air connectivity is a key enabler to achieve increased tourist arrivals to the country. Key performance indicator of the priority is therefore ide ntified as achievement of other key performance indicators in the sector. The priority will also have total AZN 30 million: direct GDP impact of AZN 20 million and indirect GDP impact of AZN 10 million by 2020. In addition, it will increase number of stop -over (connecting) passengers, which will create additional GDP for Azerbaijan (that is not quantified here ). Required investment There would be no major investment required for the priority. Expected risks The main risk factor for the implementation of t his priority is the fact that the low -cost aircrafts are not commercially cost effective. 7.3. Strategic target 3. Develop regional tourism sub -sectors for domestic and regional tourists Outside Baku, Azerbaijan has many other opportunities to utilize and much more to offer – from unique wellness tourism options to winter sport resorts and to a concentration of cultural and scenic sites along the northern -eastern corridor. Azerbaijan is committed to developing these assets, with the goal of bolstering Azerbaijan’s attractiveness to domestic and regional tourists. This will include investmen t to tourism infrastructure in certain cases, until 2020 and beyond, and better management and operations in others. 7.3.1. Priority 3.1. Revitalize demand for wellness tourism Rationale Worldwide, demand for wellness tourism is increasing. Wellness tourism offer s a focus on luxury, pampering, and beauty -oriented tourism locations. Wellness travelers prefer to travel within their own country for daily or weekend getaways, traveling abroad only for truly unique wellness experiences or various natural treatment meth ods . 56 Exhibit 18. Map of existing wellness tourism options in region al countries 1 1. Including hotel and resort establishments; approximation based on online sources. Azerbaijan’s Naphtalan oil baths, where visitors soak in warm crude oil for healing purposes, are particularly unique destinations for wellness travelers, particularly regional tourists such as those from Russia, Kazakhstan and other CIS countries. Azerbaijan ha s take n several actions to revitalize demand for wellness tourism in Azerbaijan. Reconst ruction of several resorts as spa and wellness center in Naftalan city (in 2010) and Shabran city (in 2013) could be examples. However, the majority of Naphtalan’s existing wellness destinations have not yet been upgraded with luxury features such as spas, massages, and water park infrastructure. In order to increase attractiveness of Naftalan and natural treatment resources for tourists from Europe and other region countries, it is necessary to obtain internationally recognized relevant certificat ion for t hese products and build cooperation with International SPA Association. Nevertheless, Naftalan oil and other natural resources with treatment value have great potential for the development of wellness tourism in Azerbaijan (Exhibit 19). In this regard , the Government of Azerbaijan will prioritize the utilization of Naphtalan oil baths and Duzdag salt caves for wellness tourism by 2020 . Sulphur Hot Springs Duzdag salt cave Naftalan oil baths 57 Exhibit 19. Main wellness locations in Azerbaijan 1. Sulfurous water 2. Includes SPA, massage and swimming pool. Source: Naftalan hotels booking websites Action items Action 3.1.1: Prepare an action plan on wellness tourism for 2017 – 2020 Ministry of Culture and Tourism will prepare and publish 2017 -2020 wellness development plan. This plan will also include longer term strategy to develop additional locations such as Gabala, Shabran, Masalli and Lankaran region for wellness tourism in order to leverage their existing natural resources . Action 3.1.2: Facilitate efforts to develop wellness products based on Naphtalan oil Efforts will be facilitated to develop wellness products based on Naphtalan oil. The Tourism Council will create Naphtalan o il research team under a university, consisting of scientist s and other relevant experts to define what beauty products (e.g. peeling creams, glycerin ) could be created based on Naphtalan oil. Then, the council will support companies for production and cre ation of branding for the products, including existing products. A certificate confirming the use of Naftalan oil for treatment purposes will be obtained from international institutions. In order to involve private sector to the manufacturing and expansion of new and existing products, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism will prepare proposals regarding different promotion mechanisms . The Ministry of Culture and Tourism will take practical measures to ensure the distribution of these products among tourism locations in Azerbaijan and international wellness centers . Azerbaijan will take several actions to revitalize demand for wellness tourism in Azerbaijan, starting with Naphtalan. To entice international and also domestic travelers, some marketing of Azerbaijan will include free samples of Naphtalan – based beauty p roducts, and subsidized trips from Baku to Naphtalan will be offered to international tourists interested in massage and spa treatments. Thermal Accomodation alternatives in Naftalan Oil Salt caves # of rooms Luxury features 2 Chinar Otel & Spa Naftalan Sehrli Naftalan Naftalan Hotel By Rixos Naftalan Recreation and Wellness Center Garabag resort & spa Mojuzeli Naftalan Shafa baths Naftalan Sanatorium and Resort Union Naftalan Reabilitation Center for Handicapped Ag Bina 58 These products will include small descriptions of Azerbaijan culture and specific touristic attraction s to increase aw areness on the touristic spots across the country. Necessary support for Naphtalan will be facilitated in the spread of products to other wellness locations throughout Azerbaijan and the creation of daily or short -term (three days or fewer) wellness tour alternatives will be enabled . At the same time, this action will provide regular updates on online platform s regarding investments, tourism demands and beauty products, with a focus on Naphtalan and Duzdag. Action 3.1.3: Undertake restoration and reconstruc tion works in existing accommodation alternatives, wellness facilities and other locations attractive for tourists in Galaalti, Naphtalan and Duzdag The Tourism Council will hold meetings with all relevant stakeholders to create a plan for upgrad ing in exi sting accommodation alternatives, wellness facilities and other touristic attractions such as restaurants, cafes and entertainment businesses in Galaalti, Naphtalan and Duzdag. Necessary conditions will be created to ensure domestic and foreign investments in accordance with the results of implemented meetings . Action 3.1.4: Initiate express and high quality bus and train services between Baku and Naphtalan Azerbaijan will strengthen road, train and bus connections to Naphtalan from Baku, with a focus on reliability, availability and comfort of passengers. The Tourism Council will coordinate with other public institutions to start frequent and high quality bus/train services between Baku and Naphtalan. The tickets for transportation will be combin ed with wellness and treatment packages ( beauty treatments ) offered at hotels in coordination with travel agencies. The Council will promote these daily/weekend wellness tours and transportation alternatives in tourism information centers via brochures, in travel agencies and also through national channels. Expected results and indicators Leveraging existing capacity in Naphtalan, this priority is estimated to bring total of AZN 5 million GDP increase, comprised of AZN 3 million additional direct and AZN 2 million indirect impacts and 150 new work places by 2020, based on increased foreign and local tourist arrivals to Naphtalan. Key Performance Indicator is: to increase capacity utilization rate to 65%, which is the level of European wellness facilities, compared to current level of 40% (Utilization rate of tourism centers in Naphtalan is considered here) . Potential impacts due to the sale of Naphtalan oil beauty products should be considered as additional to the impact identified here. Required investment The implementation of this priority requires approximately AZN 15 million one time investment. Expected risks The main risk factor in the implementation of this strategic priority might be limited financial resources and failure in proper implementation of promotion campaigns. At the same time, 59 lack of proper certification of Naphtalan oil and its byproducts might change the opinion of target tourists to use these tourism products. 7.3.2. Priority 3.2. Support the development of winter tourism Rat ionale Winter sports are relatively new to Azerbaijan , a vast opportunity that could be leveraged. The main destinations such as Tufandag Winter – Summer Tourism Resort Complex in Gabala and Shahdag Tourism Center CJSC Gusar offer local and regional touris ts access to skiing and other outdoor sports (Exhibit 20). Exhibit 20. Major winter tourism centers in nearby region s of Azerbaijan Source: skiresort.info, booking.com, hostels.com Azerbaijan’s two winter sport destinations are competitive with regional alternatives in terms of slope length, number of lift cabins , and number of days available for skiing each year (Exhibit 21). Shahdag Tourism Center (Gusar) offers 17 kilometers of slopes and 9 lifts and is open approximately 120 days a year. Tufandag Winter -Summer Tourism Re sort ( Gabala ) offers 15 kilometers of sl opes and 5 lifts and is open approximately 110 days a year . Considering that the proximity of tourist facilities is one of the key drivers for the development of winter tourism, Gabala , which is just 25 kilometers from the nearest airport, is a great optio n for attracting regional weekend tourists using winter charter and low -cost flights . Resort name Gabala Available hotels Shahdag Palandoken Sarikamish Rosa Khutar Mt.Elbrus Dizin Goderdzi Gudauri 60 Exhibit 21. Comparative analysis of winter tourism resorts in region al countries 1. Prices were taken from websites on skiing resorts. 2. Open days and web sites of resorts in 2015 -2016 season s were taken into account . Source: skiresort. info Several competitive winter tourism locations in region al countries make it difficult to reach the maximum use of this tourism potential of Azerbaijan. Given that Azerbaijan’s winter sports resorts are composed of 4 and 5 stars hotels, they are not fully competitive compared to alternatives from other region al countries , as far as both quantity and pric es are concerned (Exhibit 22). Considering potential growth of the market share, it has been prioritized to support winter tourism resorts throughout the country and enable the increase and development of the varieties of winter tourism products in order t o increase demand for winter tourism. Azerbaijan Gabala Most developed ski resorts in region Shahdag Palandoken Sarikamish Rosa Khutar Mt.Elbrus Dizin Goderdzi Gudauri Turkey Russia Iran Georgia Ski resort name Overall score 1 Slope length, km Number of lifts Number of days available 2 Evaluation, meter n/a 61 Exhibit 22. Comparative analysis of winter tourism centers in region countries 1. Two person room rate, bed and breakfast, AZN to USD Rate: 0,6; Ruble to USD rate: 0,015; Ge l to USD rate: 0,45 2. Up to 5 times usage of lifts Source: skiresort .info, booking.com, websites of ski -resorts Azerbaijan will take several actions to create a more robust winter sports culture and increase winter tourism, from improving transportation options to tapping key markets. Action items Action 3.2.1: Improve transportation options Based upon partnership among relevant governmental bodies , tour operators, local municipalities, and hotels, transport connectivity between the places of residence of potential tourists and winter sport resorts will be improved. To this effect, they will provid e free or subsidized daily buses from Baku to those resorts during winter season for tourists who travel by road as well as inc reasing the number and timing efficiency of regional flights to Gabala for those who prefer travelling by air . In this regard, i n order to increase efficiency in tourist inflow from potential tourist countries and coordinate activities, the Tourism Council , in collaboration with relevant bodies, will prioritize launching direct flights from main target countries to Gabala city based on the marketing and communication plan of Baku city set out in Priority 1.1. For this purpose, this action will also target t o extend travel opportunit ies to Gabala for domestic tourists . This will ensure coordinating with transportation providers, ski resort representatives and travel agencies to provide free/subsidized transportation services for travelers who have purchased one /two day ski passes or customers of the hotels in the resorts. Azerbaijan Gabala Shahdag Palandoken Sarikamish Rosa Khutar Mt.Elbrus Dizin Goderdzi Gudauri Turkey Russia Iran Georgia Ski resort name Minimum cost of accommodation 1 USD Daily ski pass fee USD Distance of nearest airport, km Number of accommodation activities n/a 62 Action 3.2.2: Organize meetings, international conferences and events (MICE) in winter tourism centers In order to increase the length of stay of tourists vising Azerbaijan for business purposes under organization of the Tourism Council, t he Council in cooperation with Convention Bureau and Ski resort representatives will discuss opportunities to add ski resort tours/events to the upcoming MICE (meetings, international conferences and eve nts) events, as set out in Priority 3.4 . Action 3.2.3: In order to increase the tourist flow from regional countries , organize large and attractive festivals in winter tourism resorts in different seasons In order to encourage the flow of tourists from regional countries, t he Ministry of Culture and Tourism will prepare an activity plan to hold large festivals in different seasons at the ski resorts including New Year or other public holiday/cultural celebration times. The plan will ensure coverage of bo th low -cost and high -end alternatives, provision of sales of local food, handcraft and other art products, and a high level of publicity for the festival. As a result, resorts will also be encouraged to build indoor -outdoor adventure parks, pools, biking t rails, fitness facilities, and other features and activities to enhance offerings. Action 3.2.4: Conduct analysis to evaluate the current status of state –owned hotels in winter tourism areas and improve accommodation options To improve ac commodation optio ns in hotels, the status of state -owned hotels in the ski resort areas will be analyzed and also data as to current administrative challenges and suggestions will be gathered . Based on the findings of the study, the government will implement outsourcing of management to professional third parties or provide flexibilities to the current management of state owned hotels by attracting talents to top managing positions from specialized hotel networks . Further in the process, a stud y will be carried out to identify potential privatization opt ions. As a result of the study, the privatization of state -owned hotels in Shahdag will be considered, beginning from winter sports resorts . The c onstruction of affordable accommodation options u nder state ownership in the existing winter tourism resorts (for example, hostels, two and three stars accommodation options) will be realized at the expense of funds set out in Priority 1.4. Besides, investments from private sector will also be promoted. Action 3.2.5: Develop and expand a mountain -ski training program in selected schools A joint working group will be created to develop a mountain -ski training program for school children of private and public schools located in proximity of winter tourism resorts. The beneficiary schools will be expanded in the program every year. The government will provide discount opportunities for week long family winter recreation to the families of the ski -training program ’s participant students. Expected results and indicator s With no addition to capacity, the strategic priority is estimated to bring additional AZN 10 million direct and AZN 10 million indirect GDP increase by 2020, totaling to AZN 20 million 63 impact to GDP. Due to increasing number of tourists there will be also an employment increase of 300 jobs created . Key Performance Indicator is to i ncrease the number of rooms sold with 50% average annual growth rate, which drives occupancy ratio to triple of 2015 levels in the existing ski resort hotels, while keeping 195 AZ N revenue per night per tourist, including accommodation, leisure and food . Required investment An investment of AZN 15 million will be required to upgrade transportation and accommodation services, in addition to organization of winter festivals. Expected risks Going beyond the above mentioned amount will be the major risk generating factor for the implementation of this priority. 7.3.3. Priority 3.3. Create cultural tourism circuits Rationale Cultural and historical heritage of the Republic of Azerbaijan is very rich. At present historical – cultural sites interesting for tourists are being restored and relevant tourism development plans are being prepared for such sites to use them as tourism attractions. The i mpact of historical routes (for example, Great Silk Way, famous military campaigns, historical battle places, etc. ) as part of cultural tourism need to be evaluated in detail . Obviously the majority of these routes cover different territo ries. In addition, historical and cultural tourism routes built upon the additional attributes (for example, winemaking routes) relevant to preferences of tourists are also acceptable, and all these could be prioritized as potential tourism products for th e Republic of Azerbaijan. Wi th the promotion of historical -cultural heritage located along the northern, north -western and western corridor of Azerbaijani territory, as well as with the creation of local and regional level cultural tourism routes, Azerbaij an will get broad opportunities to cooperate with neighboring countries, which will ultimately lead to increase in tourist inflows an d rise in the number of tourist stays in the country. 64 Exhibit 23. Map of the Republic of Azerbaijan 1. It includes beach areas close to Baku city. Action items Action 3.3.1: Draw routes of daily to weekly driving and walking routes for all cultural, historical and national park attraction points in northern, northern -western and western corridors of Azerbaijan With a nod to the famed Silk Road, a network of ancient trade routes that passed through the Caucuses region and connected E urope and Asia, Azerbaijan will design and develop a new Tourism Silk Way that passes through top attractions of the country. For this purpose, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism will start working together with other relevant stakeholders (i.e., municipa lities and entrepreneurs from regions). At the same time, the issue of establishing non -governmental organization specialized in cultural routes will also be reviewed. In order to increase the attractiveness of t he “Great Silk Way” cultural route and the c ountry for tourists from different interest segments , such cultural tourism routes as “Alexander Duma in the Caucasus”, “Wine route in Azerbaijan”, “German traces in Azerbaijan”, “Polish traces in Azerbaijan”, “Historical triumph and evidence of ancestors ” and “Noah’s Ark in Nakhchivan” interesting for tourists from different segments will be studied in line with international requirements. Besides, the passportization of these routes will be realized to place relevant tourist direct ion signs along the routes. Relevant maps will be developed in Azerbaijan i, English, Arabic and Russian languages. All cultural, historical and national park attraction points in northern, northern -western and western corridors of Azerbaijan will be defined a nd the routes of daily and daily to weekly driving and walking routes will be drawn. This information will also be made public via an online platform to promote Silk Way ( through Azerbaijan Travel website) and include various local accommodation alternativ es and touristic attractions. At the same time, all related information 1-day tour 3-day tour 7-day tour Historical monuments Natural parks and scenic beauties Villages and towns Mud volcano region 65 will be included into the promotion campaigns to be implemented for local and foreign tourists as set out in Priority 1.3. Action 3.3.2: Develop a certificat ion program for tourism gui des on Silk Way and other cultural routes The Ministry of Culture and Tourism will develop a certificat ion program for working as guide son cultural routes in accordance with Priority 4.1, preferably targeted at the involvement of local residents along the route s in training courses . The Ministry will organize trainings for locals on providing regional guide services and renting their private houses and apartments to tourists and rel evant certificates will be awarded at the end of such trainings. Besides , a single guideline for providing in formation services to tourists and necessary software to ensure certification will be ensured. Action 3.3.3: Ensure provision of funds as specified by Priority 1.4 to incentivize the development of tourism infrastructur e and provide consultancy services to entrepreneurs Trainings will be provided for entrepreneurs involved in the development of cultural tourism routes and certain proposals will be presented for their stimulation. At the same time, in order to incentivize the involvement of the private sector in the development of local accommodations and camping areas , and in addition to strengthening transportation connections via buses and trains to increase tourist satisfaction , necessary measur es will be taken to provide funds in accordance with Priority 1.4. To achieve this goal, the relevant government body will ensure provision of funds to small and mid -size entrepreneurs to incentivize the development of tourism infrastructure along the rou tes (transformation of homes into boutique hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops). In this regard , certain villages will selected as main accommodation options and investment in building tourism information centers in those areas will be prioritized. The cer tification and training programs for guides and accommodation providers will be funded as set out in Priority 1.4. Action 3.3.4: Promote new cultural tourism route s The Ministry of Culture and Tourism will then promote cultural tourism routes in target cou ntries using exhibitions in international markets and other marketing options. The priority will be working with travel agencies of neighboring countries to create common packages. Expected results and indicators By 2020, creation of the cultural tourism routes will bring a total of AZN 20 million GDP : AZN 10 million direct and AZN 10 million indirect GDP increase, and 3,700 employment increase in total , including 2700 employment in the tourism sector. Key performance indicators are the establishment of 24 destination stops to be built along the cultural tourism routes , with different stay packages of “7 nights”, “5 nights”, “3 nights”, “1 night” and “daily” to be offered, and attracting 180 thousand tourists to these routes. Average accommodation cos ts along these cultural routes and daily expenses related to the utilization of these cultural routes will be 30% lower compared to tourist expenses in Baku. 66 Required investment This priority will require an estimated AZN 95 million investment of one tim e, for development of accommodation facilities , tourist information sites and destination stops including cultural and eco -tourism. Expected risks Given that these tourism routes have not had high performance indicators by now and that more money and time are required for their commissioning , there is a risk of not producing the expected results from the project. In order to prevent such risks, it is deemed relevant to delegate the implementation of the project to private partners. 7.3.4. Priority 3.4. Support th e development of business tourism Rationale Currently , MICE (Meetings, international conferences, and events) tourism, which includes travels abroad for business purposes, is an important part of tourist inflow. This prospective tourism sub -segment include s travel purposes such as meetings among different companies, congress and conferences, trade or scientific -technical cooper ation meetings, promotion campaign events, as well as attendance in international fairs and exhibitions. Meetings dedicated to diffe rent topics help exchange of knowledge and experience among relevant experts and fu rther development of these areas. Another important attribute of the MICE tourism is its positive impact on an increase in employment and tourism sector’s contribution to the country GDP. Besides, business travels independent from any seasonality aspect trigger development of the country through the year. Considering all these factors, we can conclude that the implementation of important projects towards developing the MICE tourism both in Baku and in the regions will contribute to increase in international tourist arrivals in Azerbaijan an d to initiatives to organize large scale international events (for example, conferences, forums, etc.) in Azerbaijan. Action items Action 3.4.1: Identify and develop new target markets In the coming years, relevant market research will be undertaken to at tract business events from countries such European countries, India, China, South Korea, Indonesia and Malaysia , which hold leading positions as for the number of business tourists, identify the cost effectiveness of attracting business tourists from such countries, and develop sale and marketing methods. Along with domestic resources, this will be cooperated with research organizations with knowledge of target markets mentioned above. As the result of researches, in case that the efficiency of those market s is determined, the options of participation in exhibitions attended by customers and suppliers of these markets will be evaluated. Considering the uniqueness of the above mentioned markets, necessary exchange of information and experiences with local sup pliers will be realized (for example, companies providing hotel and tourism services). Action 3.4.2: Strengthen positions in markets of Russian Federation and Middle East countries 67 It is planned to attract the majority of customers from business tourism markets of Russian Federation and the Middle East. If the market researches demonstrate the availability of more potential in this direction, relevant sales events for Azerbaijan’s MICE tourism will be organized in Russian Federation and United Arab Emirat es. Sales and marketing activities will be organized regularly in these markets to achieve full awareness on business tourism offered by our country. This activity includes cooperation with local representative offices of relevant bodies. By using their assistance, it is envisaged to organize business meetings in those target markets, prepare promotional materials and video commercials in their local languages as well as participating in exhibitions that bring together customers from local markets. Acti on 3.4.3: Create Honorary Ambassadors Club for Meetings Industry Many associations across the world apply several conditions to organize their events in any country. The most important of these conditions is the membership of the country , where a planned conference will take place , in those associations . In many cases, these members make active campaign within an organization to hold the proposed event in their own countries. To undertake an active and effective campaign, one needs to promote the MICE tour ism the country offers, including promotion materials and trainings demonstrating a country’s ability to hold big events. Just for this purpose, scientists and publically well -known personalities who might act as coordinator in organization of big meetings and conferences will be gathered together to prepare necessary promotion and campaign materials for effective promotion of the country’ MICE tourism potential in international organizations. The Honorary Ambassador Club will be established for this purpos e. Regular meetings and trainings will be organized with members of the Honorary Ambassadors Club to organize high level promotion campaign of the country’s MICE tourism potential. Action 3.4.4: Support development of MICE tourism in the regions Relevant market researches will be undertaken , and both online and other sales and marketing resources will be used to organize different business events outside Baku, including Gabala, Ganja and Gusar to organize active promotion campaign events. Action 3.4.5: Par ticipate in international events and organize promotion visits In order to pr omote Azerbaijan as a modern meeting venue across the world, the importance of participation in international exhibitions such IMEX Frankfurt and EBTM Worl d, specialized in busin ess tourism , will be evaluated and where necessary, effective promotion of meetings venues will be implemented using direct communication format. Promotion of the country in international events such as “Ace of Mice”, “ATM Dubay”, “Conventa” and “M&I Forum s” will be evaluated. Cooperation options with region countries, particularly Georgian and Kazakhstan convention bureaus will be reviewed. Furthermore, promotion visits will be organized for international customers and media representatives specialized in MICE tourism. Action 3.4.6: Build cooperation with international business tourism organizations The country will attach particular attention to cooperation with international organizations offering knowledge and experience exchange opportunities in MICE tourism as benefiting from exchange of view s on international best practices in this area will be an added value for 68 the competitiveness of the country. Through c lose cooperation with the International Congress and Conferences Associa tion (ICCA), International Association of Professional Congress Organizers (IAPCO), Union of International Associations (UIA) , their sales and marketing instruments will be used effectively . Considering close relations between these organizations and assoc iations, participation in their regular regional and international events will al so be considered . Expected results and indicators As the result of actions in support of business tourism, twice as many business tourists are estimated to come to Azerbaijan from 2016 to 2020. This will enable to build business tourism infrastructure in the r egions and develop tourism sub -segments. At the same time, business tourism will have direct contribution to improvement in welfare of companies and organizations. Requir ed investment In total AZN 4 million, including AZN 1 million each year, will be required to implement the planned events. Expected risks The major risks to implementation of this strategic priority are limited number or lack of direct flight connections between Baku city and target markets of business tourism, high level of competition in the region over business tourism and high investment requirements if any diversification of Baku’s business tourism venues is required. 7.3.5. Priority 3.5. Strengthe n sustaina ble tourism potential (eco – tourism, rural tourism, etc.) Rationale Azerbaijan is endowed with rich tourism resources such as vast amount of forests, rivers, wells, waterfalls, sea, reserves, national parks, as well as mud volcanoes and attractive rural areas, unique traditions and culinary , which can turn the country into an attractive tourism destination (Exhibit 24). Azerbaijan is home to almost half of the world’s mud volcanoes and is one of only 20 countries in the world with this attraction. 69 Exhibit 24. Map of the Republic of Azerbaijan and tourism locations of the country Historical monuments Towns and villages National parks and scenic beauties  Ateshgah  Balakan  Absheron Peninsula 1  Nabran Beach  Nakhchivan Mausuleum  Ismayilli  Agh Gol  Samur -Yalama  Ordubad Reserve  Gakh  Altiagac  Shahdag  Gobustan  Gabala  Gy -Gol  Shirvan  The Khan’s Palace  Guba (including Khinalig)  Hikan  Tufandag  The Church of Kish  Sheki  Lokbatan mud volconoes  Zanzagur  Ashnabi -Kehf  Yanardag 1. It includes beach areas nearby Baku. Furthermore, Azerbaijan is endowed with vast amount of national parks. Its land dedicated to national parks is much larger than neighboring Georgia — but Georgia’s eco -tourism brings in exponentially more tourists (Exhibit 25). According to statistic dat a, in 2015, Georgia’s 0.9 million square kilometers of national parks received 518,000 visitors, while Azerbaijan’s 3.1 million squ are kilometers of national parks received just 75,000 24 documented visitors. The differing level of infrastructure to cater to tourists between in Azerbaijan and Georgia may 24 Source: Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Azerbaijan Historical and religious monuments National parks and scenic beauties Villages and towns Mud volcano regions 70 explain this discrepancy. However, tourists’ interest in visiting Georgia parks sug gests that Azerbaijan’s vast parkland area holds huge potential. Tourist excursions could be organized to national parks, including mountains, forests and rivers. Exhibit 25. Comparative analysis of national park areas and tourist visits such areas in Azer baijan and Georgia 1. Including official and managed natural reserves and parks 2. Consider ing accommodation alternatives nearby (< 10km) national parks (Except ski resorts for Azerbaijan ). Source: Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Agency of Protected Areas of Georgia Rural tourism is also an important tourism sub -segment of the world tourism industry. Thus, people, who prefer recreation in quiet and green corners of the world far away from large cities, can benefit from physical and psychic recreation impacts. Various regions of Azerbaijan including villages offer tourists accommodation and restaurant services, although these services are not at a sufficient level. Training on tourism practices will be provided for household owners in village s, which will help increase the number of employed population in rural areas, while also strengthening service infrastructure for rural tourism, improving tourism services offered by rural houses, as well as developing alternative tourism sub – segments and the country ’s economy. The d evelopment of rural tourism will facilita te the development of self -employed entrepreneurship practices, utilities in rural areas and increase of employment particularly among women, and several focused events will be taken to r each the maximum tourism potential of the country. Action items Action 3.5.1: Study Azerbaijan’s eco -tourism potential and organize various tourism activities in national parks n/a Area of national parks, mn km 2 Yearly visitors, thousands Azerbaijan Georgia Azerbaijan Georgia Number of national parks Number of trails n/a Guided daily tours Accomodation alternatives 2 71 Ministry of Culture and Tourism, in collaboration with the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources , will review options of studying Azerbaijan’s eco -tourism potential and prepare an action p lan for the organization of different tourism events in national parks. In addition, under Priority 3.3, daily – weekly transport connections w ith national parks will be designed . Alternative daily/weekly walking routes in national parks will be created and favorable operation schedule will be designed for these routes. The work will include definition and development of camping areas in the nati onal parks. Where needed, the operation of these camping areas will be outsourced to private operators. Finally, there will be a project to place signage throughout national parks and develop maps in Azerbaijan i, English, German, French and Russian languages. “Azerbaijan ’s eco -tourism” album will be designed , published and placed at online platform s. Besides, options such as creation of specific eco -tourism website will be considered . Action 3.5.2: Develop rural tourism in Azerbaijan The Mi nistry of Culture and Tourism will develop an action plan for the development of rural tourism as set out in Priority 3.3. Under this action plan, short -term courses will be organized to promote several traditions (for example, carpet – making, bread making , etc.) existing in rural areas and measures will be taken towards branding specialized agricultural products. For that purpose, where necessary, this process might involve both local and foreign experts. Relevant rural houses will also be identified for the accommodation of tourists and appropriate measures provided for in Priority 1.4 will be taken to launch refurbishment works in rural houses, provide trainings for the reception of tourists in village communi ties and provision of services, and conduct ed ucational activities to encourage the tax paying habits of village people. A standard consistent with Priority 4.2 will be designed for ensuring minimal requirements for rural houses. Action 3.5.3: Create and promote Shamakhy Safari Park Necessary measures will be taken with participation of relevant bodies to create Shamakhy Safari Park and promote it in the future using online platforms and other resources. Expected results and indicators First of all, rural householders and tourists wi ll benefit from the project. However, with the realization of t he project, much wider audience including other village residents providing direct services to tourists (for example, guide s, transport, hunting etc.) as well as people producing food products and souvenirs for tourists will also benefit from the implementation of the project. With the increase of organized actions and entrepreneurship behavior among rural people, their life style will become more active, which will lead to improvement of infras tructure in rural areas, creation of permanent workplaces for rural people, increase of employment rate, increase of welfare, development of business practices and improvement of social status in rural areas. In addition, each city and region will cause po sitive impressions among domestic and foreign tourists. Impact of this priority on real GDP in 2020 is already reflected in the results o f P riority 3.3. Local people will benefit from tourism attractions in national parks, and local tourism products enabli ng protection of environment will be created. Required investment 72 The required investment for this priority is covered by the investment requirements of Priority 3.3. Expected risks Since the implementation of this priority requires a considerable amount of money, lack of finance might be a risk factor for its implementation. 7.4. Strategic target 4. Create a national tourism quality system to increase tourist satisfaction 7.4.1. Priority 4.1. Invest in tourism education programs Rationale Demand for employees in the tourism industry has increased at a steady pace since 2009, and the implementation of key tourism priorities in this Strategic Roadmap could accelerate this rate further (Exhibit 26 ). In general, according to the statistic data of 2014, only 10% of 42,000 tourism employees have formal tourism education 25. Exhibit 26. Actual and projected growth rate in the number of tourism sector employees (thousands) Source: State Statistics Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan There are currently a limited number of tourism -related degree graduates in Azerbaijan. At the undergraduate level, tourism education is not highly preferred among students du e to the seasonality of job prospects , although it is considered respectable among young people . At the high -school and vocational -school levels, tourism programs do not fit well with 25 Source: State Statistics Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan High growth Current growth Low growth 73 international standards and the available programs are mainly built on t raining of theoretical skills. Tourism -specific business administration programs (hereinafter referred to as MBA programs), which are required to train top -notch management for jobs in the industry, are not available in Azerbaijan. Experienced employees tr y to find a job in Baku due to relatively higher salaries, which leaves regional tourism centers without experienced and qualified employees. Hospitality training courses will be diversified and increased to educate existing and potential employees. Consi dering future demand for tourism sector, with the aim of increasing the number of qualified and experienced graduates and developing skillful personnel, a range of actions will be undertaken towards extend ing the network of vocational schools specialized i n tourism, conducting relevant vocational training seminars and improving quality system. Action items Action 4.1.1: Create a working group to coordinate efforts to improve vocational education and training programs in tourism The Tourism Council, together with relevant government bodies, private sector, tourism education facilities, civil society and the Council will create a working group to coordinate efforts to improve vocational education and training programs in tourism. Action 4.1.2: Implementation of several measures by the working group The Working Group is expected to implement several measures in the field of tourism. First, local and international teachers will be hired and train -the -trainer approach will be used to improve capacity of the trainers. Then, the group will identify training modules for new employees and experienced employees in the sector, using benchmarks from other countries. A particular focus will be given to language courses in local languages of t he target markets, as specified by Priority 1.3. Free or low -cost language, hospitality, and local vocational courses will provided in partnership with major hotels in tourism regions such as Gabala and Guba. Necessary measures will be taken to increase th e yearly quotas for tourism students at existing education institutions and increase internship programs in vocational education schools for tourism, including summer internship s at hotels in the region. At the same time, several measures will be taken to support scientific researches in tourism. All the tourism education dimensions will be compliant with the international standards and the relevant governmental bodies will conduct necessary work to receive international accreditation. Then, the cooperation between schools and private sector will be strengthened by pairing vocational education schools with top -notch hotel and restaurants of Azerbaijan. All students of tourism education will get obligatory internships in these facilities, and the working grou p will take other necessary measures in this direction. Action 4.1.3: Establish vocational tourism schools under the Azerbaijan Tourism and Management University 74 In TRZs, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, together with the Ministry of Education , will review the establishment of 5 regional vocational tourism schools under Azerbaijan Tourism and Management University (ATMU). Necessary land plot will be allocated to these schools to build their own experiment site, and options such as creation of ex perimental hotels and restaurants in these land plots under public -private partnership will be evaluated. Building a dormitory designed for 100 – 150 students, experimental hotel and restaurant close to schools to facilitate education, living and internship of 200 students in each of regional vocational education schools will be considered . Action 4.1.4: Take measures for the preparation of professional standards and curriculum for tourism sector education and certification of tourism guides For the purpose of implementation of this measure, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism will cooperate with the Ministry of Education (this topic has been discussed in more detail in the Strategic Road Map for development of vocational education and training in the Republ ic of Azerbaijan). Necessary measures will be taken with regard to the certification of tourist guide s. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism will organize tourist guide training courses in Baku and regions with big tourism potential for persons who are willing to obtain certification to become tourist guide s. Active involvement of ATMU and International Tourism Guides Federation will be envisioned . Action 4.1.5: Organize educational workshops for other sector representatives The Tourism Council will coordinate the organization of education workshops for representatives of government authorities directly or indirectly associated with tourism sector to increase tourist satisfaction and provide better services. Action 4.1.6: Take measures to create MBA p rograms in tourism The Ministry of Culture and Tourism will implement joint work with relevant government bodies to create Tourism MBA program in ATMU and later in selected universities. For this purpose, partnership relations will be built with the best MBA schools across the wor ld. Expected results and indicators Strengthening vocational tourism education is also a key enabler for the impact of reforms in the sector to be fully captured. The priority will not have a direct impact by itself in the sector, but rather allow Azerbaijan to capture GDP increase. With the implementation of this Strategic Road map, new work places will be created and the interest among young people in tourism education will be increased. Its employment impact will bring 150 jobs by 2020 due to attracting additional trainers. Required investment The total cost of implementation will be AZN 10 million to conduct trainings and create new programs, if 5% of all tourism employees receive guide certification and 10% of all employees receive foreign language training. Completion of these programs will b e the target for th is priority, in addition to shared key performance indicators of the other strategic priorities that this investment in vocational education will affect. Expected risks 75 Major risk factors for implementation of this priority may be lack o f finance as its implementation requires a considerable amount of finance, and less interest in tourism among students due its seasonality attributes and lack of skilled labor. 7.4.2. Priority 4.2. Improve standardization and certification system in tourism sector Rationale The law of the Republic of Azerbaijan date d 4 June 1999 on Tourism defines the tourism product as arrange of service s provided to tourists (tourist accommodation, transportation, catering services, beach resorts , excursion, as well as guide (guide – translator) services and other services regardless of the purpose of visit). In addition, services under the term “tourism products ” could be classified as following:  Accommodation service – various accommodation facilities providing this service include hotels, guest houses, recreation centers , rural houses, etc.;   Transport service – it includes air transport, motor vehicle transport, railway transport and non – traditional transport services;   Catering services – these services are provided by restaurants, cafes, bars, var ious catering services within accommodation facilities and other similar facilities;   Beach services – provision of beach services to domestic and foreign tourists along the coastal line of water basins located in territories un der state, municipal and private ownership meeting environmental, sanitary and safety norms;   Different services – these include services such as entertainment , leisure, sports, shop ping , transfer, bank ing and etc.  As seen from classification, the tourism p roduct is a complex undertaking formed from various service areas, which makes it difficult to provide high quality services in different areas. Considering international best practices, this sector envisages the application of national and international c ertificates to increase the quality of tourism products, ensure compliance with safety norms and protect consumer rights. Currently , in accordance with the “Rules of Certification of Tourist -Excursion services” approved by the Resolution No. 97, dated 16 July 2004, of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan and AZS 745 – 2015 State Standard “on classification of hotels and similar facilities, identification of star categories and introduction of evaluation criteria”, hotels and similar accommodation facilities are subject to certification in the country. In addition to the certification of hotels and similar accommodation facilities, the certification of above services will contribute to the increase of servicing level, country’s integration in to world standards and development of tourism sector in general. Besides, there is a need to prepare and approve as a methodical instruction a single manual to be use d by tourist guides to ensure accurate promotion of Azerbaijani history, cu lture and national values without any distortion. Furthermore, it is deemed necessary to certify catering and transportation services, create and implement state standards based international tourism best practices and prepare methodical instructions with regard to sharing information with tourists. 76 Action items Action 4.2.1: Amendment s and changes to legislation Proposals on amendments and changes to legislation will be prepared to ensure the certification of relevant tourist services. Action 4.2.2: Prepare new national standards and manuals Relevant government bodies, with the involvement of experts, will prepare standards for hotel, tour operator , catering, treatment and wellness, extreme and transport tourism , rural tourism, beach to urism and other services. Besides, a single manual in foreign languages (in English, German, French, Russian and Arabic languages) will be prepared to ensure awareness among tourists . Action 4.2.3: Improve the existing standards The r elevant government bo dy, with the involvement of experts, will improve state standards for hotels classification and catering facilities. Expected results and indicators Certification will contribute to the increase of tourism products quality , better protection of consumers’ safety and increase of customer satisfaction with products. Required investment Involvement of experts to implement this priority and prepare relevant standards will require one time investment of AZN 100,000. Expected risks Implementation of this priority might cause certain bureaucratic obstacles. To prevent such obstacles, a relevant control mechanism should be established. 77 8. FINANCING MECHANISM The achieve ment of the specified strategic targets requires AZN 350 million investment. The i mplementation of actions in the State Strategy will be funded by using the following sources: • Government budge t; • Non -budgetary funds; • Funds of National Entrepreneurship Support Fund; • Local budgets; • Funds of local departments, enterprises and organizations regardless of the type of ownership; • Foreign direct investments; • Credits by country banks and grants; • Credits, technical and financial assistance by international organizations; • Other sources not prohibited by leg islation . In order to ensure effective spending of funds for priority targets, budgets will be prepared within performa nce based budget ing process. A larger portion of the required funds will be provided at the expense of the restructuration of existing budgets, joint financing initiatives of private sector and different investors. 78 9. Implement , monitor and evaluat e Implementation of the strategic road map Coordination and governance: Accelerated decision making, clear accountability, and additional execution capacity will ensure appropriate oversight and governance .  A mechanism for accelerated decision making at the highest political level will be set up for the strategic vision and roadmap. This mechanism will enable clearly visible leadership from the decision makers and other main participants to emphasize the importance of implementation. Decisions about implementation priorities and concrete targets will be made using this mechanism.  The main executive organization will appoint re sponsible persons for each relevant priority and action in order to implement them in a timely and proper manner. With the involvement of other organizations specified in the action plan, working groups under the top management of responsible organizations will also be formed for each priority. Reporting meetings of the work groups with the top management of the main executive organization will be conducted on a quarterly basis . Quarterly work progress and activities to be performed during the next quarter will be discussed in the meetings. The work groups will carry out their activities based on annual work programs . Daily work schedules and task allocation will be determined by the responsible person. Typically, current work group meetings will be held in the offices of the main executive organization as requested by the responsible person . The main executive organization will ensure that appropriate conditions are created for unimpeded activity of the work group and, when necessary, it will involve externa l experts to make best use of their technical support.  An appropriate coordination group (delivery unit) will be established to monitor the implementation of the Strategic Roadmap and provide central execution support in areas such as in problem solving or coordination across institutions. The unit’s major wor k will serve to create organization across the institutions, processes, and technology required for implementation. This coordination unit will oversee teamwork across work groups in line with the action plan, summarizing of quarterly reports and preparati on of annual reports. Furthermore, it will be responsible for ensuring that the involved institutions arrange for the required financial and human resources, and empowered to inject additional resources when needed. Strategic alignment and financing: To al low for an efficient implementation process that avoids wasted resources and conflicting objectives, strategic vision and roadmap will be fully integrated into other sectorial plans and existing budgets.  All related strategic documents proposed by relevan t governmental institutions will be harmonized with the Strategic Roadmap and the mandates of existing state agencies will be realigned to the objectives wherever necessary. This alignment work will include developing transparent, measurable implementation targets, which will be communicated publicly and used to track progress.  Detailed implementation plans will be developed for all strategic priorities as governance for their execution, based on provided actions, to provide transparency 79 regarding the resou rces required and expected impact. While the assigned leader will bear overall responsibility for fulfilling the implementation plan, it will involve all key institutions and private sector organizations in its application . Stakeholder mobilization platfor m: Both domestic and international partners from both public and private sectors will be mobilized to join in the execution of the Strategic Roadmap.  Appropriate actions will be taken to identify and involve key strategic partners. The involvement of multiple organizations and stakeholders is required for the successful implementation of each strategic priority. To ensure alignment of objectives and proper coordination, advisory councils and working committees will be formed to work with the private se ctor and state owned enterprises as well as with critical international partners, such as international financial institutions .  Civil society and think -tank will be mobilized and engaged to generate broad support for the roadmap. Furthermore, active commun ication, transparency and inclusiveness will help to mobilize the public and private sectors, society as a whole, and other relevant stakeholders. Monitoring and e valuation of the Strategic Roadm ap The Strategic Roadmap will be monitored and evaluated to ensure successful implementation through required tools, processes and other resources. During monitoring and evaluation, focus will be placed on the implementation of core actions, expected results and indicators versus priorities, and also compliance wit h the completion schedule will be checked. The monitoring and evaluation will be carried out in accordance with procedures based on international methodologies. The annual activity programs of the work groups will be agreed with the coordination unit and a pproved by the main executive organization. Representatives of the coordination unit will participate in the quarterly meetings of the work groups. The main executive organization will submit quarterly work progress reports to the coordination unit at least 10 days prior to the work group’s quarterly meeting . By taking into account extensive analysis and evaluation of quarterly reports including discussions held in the quarterly meeting of the working group, the coordination unit will submit quarterly monitoring results and its recommendations for the next period to the main executive organization within 10 days following the meeting date. The coordination unit and the main executive organization will take actions to ensure that the monitoring results an d recommendations are taken into consideration by the working group in its daily activities. 80 10. Actions Plan N Action Main responsible entity Other responsible entities Result indicators Completion date Strategic target 1. Realize Baku’s full tourism potential by attracting more international visitors 1.1. Establish a National Tourism Promotion Bureau and ensure its operation first in Baku city 1.1.1. Establish National Tourism Promotion Bureau Ministry of Culture and Tourism  It is estimated to bring total of AZN 10 million, including AZN 5 million direct and AZN 5 million indirect GDP increase by 2020 ;  increase the number of nights spent by foreign tourists in hotels and hotel -like facilities of Baku in 2020 to 3.65 million night s from estimated 0.8 million nights in 2015 2017 1.1.2. Implement necessary organizational works to ensure the operation of the Bureau Ministry of Culture and Tourism Baku City Executive Authority; State Committee for Property Issues 2017 1.1.3. Implementation of d ifferent measures by the Bureau National Tourism Promotion Bureau Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 –2020 1.1.4. Prepare a marketing and communication plan of Baku city for 2017 – 2020 National Tourism Promotion Bureau 2017 1.1.5. Create a tourism calendar for Baku City to coordinate the timing of all major events Ministry of Culture and Tourism National Tourism Promotion Bureau ; Baku City Executive Authority 2017 1.2. Upgrade available information on tourism attractions in Baku and package tourism offerings 1.2.1. Take measures towards creating online awareness and preventing difficulties frequently met by tourists in order to ensure awareness among tourists about Baku at a sufficient level National Tourism Promotion Bureau Ministry of Culture and Tourism; Baku City Executive Authority  It is estimated to bring AZN 30 million direct GDP and AZN 20 2017 –2020 81 N Action Main responsible entity Other responsible entities Result indicators Completion date 1.2.2. Take measures to increase awareness among tourists visiting Baku and further travelling to the regions Ministry of Culture and Tourism; Baku City Executive Authority million indirect GDP, totaling AZN 50 million.  it is estimated to create 6,100 employment in tourism sectorial totaling 8500 employment by 2020;  Increase the number of foreign tourists accommodated in hotels and hotel -like facilities in Baku in 2020 to 0.9 million from estimated 0.5 million in 2015  Increase the average length of stay per tourist from 2to 3 days 2017 –2020 1.2.3 Increase awareness on less visited attractions located in Baku city National Tourism Promotion Bureau Ministry of Culture and Tourism; Baku City Executive Authority 2017 –2020 1.2.4 Implement various support mechanisms by the Bureau National Tourism Promotion Bureau Baku City Executive Authority 2017 –2020 1.2.5 Improve services provided by city tour transport vehicles Ministry of Culture and Tourism National Tourism Promotion Bureau; Baku City Executive Authority 2017 –2020 1.2.6. Take several measures to harness full potential of business travel to Baku Ministry of Culture and Tourism National Tourism Promotion Bureau; Baku City Executive Authority; State Oil Company of the Republic of Azerbaijan 2017 –2020 1.2.7. Prepare and promote Nowruz holiday packages National Tourism Promotion Bureau Ministry of Culture and Tourism; Baku City Executive Authority; State Civil Aviation Administration 2017 –2020 1.2.8. Hold different events during F1 races National Tourism Promotion Bureau Ministry of Culture and Tourism; Baku City Executive Authority; Ministry of Youth and Sports 2017 –2020 1.2.9. Promotion of tourism services packages by the Bureau National Tourism Promotion Bureau Ministry of Culture and Tourism; Baku City Executive Authority; 2017 –2020 82 N Action Main responsible entity Other responsible entities Result indicators Completion date Ministry of Youth and Sports 1.2.10. Shopping festival packages Ministry of Culture and Tourism Baku City Executive Authority; Ministry of Economy; Ministry of Taxes 2017 –2020 1.2.11. Offer do -it-yourself online tourism packages in websites of local tour operators National Tourism Promotion Bureau Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 –2020 1.2.12. Create specific tourist service packages for target counties building on Baku’s and Azerbaijan’s unique value propositions National Tourism Promotion Bureau 2017 –2020 1.2.13. Prepare one or two -days travel packages from Baku to other regions via air transport State Civil Aviation Academy Ministry of Culture and Tourism; National Tourism Promotion Bureau 2017 –2020 1.3. Implement a Baku city promotion campaign 1.3.1. Select key target countries National Tourism Promotion Bureau Ministry of Culture and Tourism  it is estimated to bring total of AZN 230 million GDP increase, including AZN 150 million direct and AZN 80 million indirect impacts ;  is expected to bring total of 16,000 employment in touri sm by 2020, including 11,500 directly in tourism sector;  Increase the number of foreign tourists accommodated in hotels and hotel -like facilities 2017 1.3.2. Select target countries and cities National Tourism Promotion Bureau Ministry of Culture and Tourism; Ministry of Finance; Baku City Executive Authority 2017 1.3.3. Pursue market research to implement promotion campaigns National Tourism Promotion Bureau Ministry of Culture and Tourism; Ministry of Finance 2017 –2020 1.3.4. Implement a Baku city marketing campaign in target cities hiring marketing and media planning companies National Tourism Promotion Bureau 2017 –2020 83 N Action Main responsible entity Other responsible entities Result indicators Completion date 1.3.5. Identify marketing channels National Tourism Promotion Bureau Ministry of Finance in Baku from 0.5 million in 2015 to 0.9 million in 2020 ;  Increase the number of in foreign tourists not accommodated in hotels from 0.8 million in 2015 to 1.5 million in 2020 2017 –2020 1.3.6. Open tourism representative offices and organiz e their activity in diplomatic missions of Azerbaijan Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ministry of Culture and Tourism; Ministry of Finance 2017 –2020 1.4. Develop Baku’s tourism infrastructure, including low -cost accommodations and robust tourist areas 1.4.1. Prepare an action plan for funds to be allocated to tourism sector by the National Fund for Entrepreneurship Support Ministry of Economy Ministry of Finance; Ministry of Culture and Tourism  It is estimated to have potential to bring AZN 45 million direct GDP increase by 2020, and an additional AZN 25 million indirect GDP increase, totaling AZN 70 million GDP increase;  it is estimated to open 4,500 employment directly in tourism sector with 6,200 total employment by 2020;  By 2020, the share of accomm odation at affordable costs will remain at the current level of 30% in the total number of accom modation ; 2017 –2020 1.4.2. Prepare a promotion campaign plan with regard to us ing the funds of the National Fund for Entrepreneurship Support in 2017 – 2020 Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Economy 2017 –2020 1.4.3. Organiz e different events in Baku to promote unique values and products, as well as handcraft samples of Azerbaijan Ministry of Culture and Tourism National Tourism Promotion Bureau ; Baku City Executive Authority; Seaside Boulevard Administration; State Marine Administration; State Administration of Historical – Architectural Reserve “Icherisheher” 2017 –2020 1.4.4. Prepare an action plan for the promotion of beach tourism after 2020 Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 –2020 84 N Action Main responsible entity Other responsible entities Result indicators Completion date 1.4.5. Assess big flagship projects for Baku National Tourism Promotion Bureau Baku City Executive Authority; Ministry of Culture and Tourism  265 thousand incremental low – cost tourist arrivals will be accommodated; 2018 –2020 1.4.6. Create dedicated infrastructure, including “Duty free” shops State Customs Committee Ministry of Culture and Tourism; Ministry of Taxes; National Tourism Promotion Bureau 2018 –2020 1.4.7. Create necessary conditions for building popular brand hotels in Baku Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Economy; Baku City Executive Authority 2017 –2020 1.4.8. Prepare proposals to offer university dormitories as accommodation to tourists in summer seasons and implement relevant promotion campaign s National Tourism Promotion Bureau Ministry of Education; Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2018 –2020 Strategic target 2. Implement Key Enablers to Develop Tourism in the Country 2.1. Establish Tourism Council 2.1.1. Ensure the operation of the tourism council Presidential Administration of the Republic of Azerbaijan  It will be a key enabler for achiev ing the objectives of the strategic roadmap, but will not have direct impact on GDP and employment;  Implementation of planned actions in the tourism sector will be more efficient, flexible and dedicated 2016 2.1.2. Establish working groups in order to build proper coordination for development of tourism sector Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2016 2.1.3. Review the strategic roadmap priorities and propose necessary changes to existing programs to launch its execution Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 2.1.4. Establish a monitoring system for the execution of strategic priorities Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 85 N Action Main responsible entity Other responsible entities Result indicators Completion date 2.2. Create Tourism Recreation Zones (TRZS) 2.2.1. Establish the governance structure of TRZs Ministry of Culture and Tourism  It will be a key enabler for other priorities , but will not have direct impact on GDP and employment 2016 2.2.2. Establish the activities of TRZ in line with tourism cluster Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Finance; Ministry of Economy 2017 –2018 2.2.3. Development of TRZs Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Finance; Ministry of Economy 2017 –2020 2.2.4. Prepare and publish annual development plans for TRZs Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 2.2.5. Conduct a study to create new tourism recreation zones (TRZs) Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 –2018 2.2.6. Set up a monitoring mechanism for execution of annual development plans Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 2.3. Develop Regional Tourism Service Infrastructure for Domestic and Regional Tourists to resolve seasonality problem in tourism 2.3.1. Create a tourism calendar for Baku City and later for the entire country Ministry of Culture and Tourism National Tourism Promotion Bureau ; Baku city Executive Authority  It will be a key enabler for priorities , but will not have direct impact on GDP and employment 2017 –2020 2.3.2. Promot e tourists arrivals in all tourism sub -segments (wellness, environmental, business, rural, etc.) Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources; National Tourism Promotion Bureau 2017 –2020 86 N Action Main responsible entity Other responsible entities Result indicators Completion date 2.3.3. Support events and projects reducing seasonality in tourism promotion policies of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Economy 2017 –2020 2.3.4. Preference for non -seasonality in Baku city marketing campaigns National Tourism Promotion Bureau Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 –2020 2.3.5. Move the hunting season to the low tourism season in compliance with relevant requirements Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 2.3.6. Promot e non – seasonal tourism in TRZs Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 –2020 2.4. Simplify and expedite visa processes and border crossing procedures 2.4.1. Review the simplification of visa issuing mechanisms in international airports, as well as at border crossing points Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ministry of Culture and Tourism; State Migration Service; State Border Service  Increase GDP directly by AZN 20 million by 2020, and have AZN 10 million indirect GDP impact, totaling to AZN 30 million increase;  Increase in the number of tourists due to easier visa processes . 2017 –2020 2.4.2. Introduc e self -serving kiosks for the visa on arrival tourists where tourists can fill the forms directly from kiosks Ministry of Foreign Affairs State Civil Aviation Administration; State Border Service; State Committee for Public Services and Social Innovations under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan 2017 –2018 2.4.3. Improve e – visa issuing process Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ministry of Culture and Tourism; State Committee for Public Services and Social Innovations under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan 2017 87 N Action Main responsible entity Other responsible entities Result indicators Completion date 2.4.4. Take necessary measures to ensure fast passage for foreigners and persons without citizenship in border crossing points State Border Service Ministry of Foreign Affairs; State Customs Committee; State Migration Service; Azeravtoyol OJSC 2017 2.5. Improve air connectivity to major source markets 2.5.1. Create a working group to achieve agreement in liberal air transport in parallel with the marketing and communication plan of Baku city for 2017 – 2020 set out in the Priority 1.1 State Civil Aviation Administration Ministry of Culture and Tourism; AZAL CJSC; Ministry of Justice; Ministry of Finance; Ministry of Economy  This priority will have total AZN 30 million: direct GDP impact of AZN 20 million and indirect GDP impact of AZN 10 million by 2020 2016 2.5.2. In order to increase the number of airline companies in Azerbaijan, support creation of airline companies and national airline companies offering affordable prices State Civil Aviation Administration Ministry of Culture and Tourism; AZAL CJSC; Ministry of Economy; Ministry of Finance 2017 –2020 2.5.3. Optimize flight schedules for existing flights, to better address expectations of weekend travelers to Baku (from city marketing and communication campaign countries set out in Priority 1.3) State Civil Aviation Administration Ministry of Culture and Tourism; AZAL CJSC; National Tourism Promotion Bureau 2017 –2020 2.5.4. Identify current level of service in the regional airports of Azerbaijan and assess needs for airport expansions and take measures to implement investments in airports for 2020 – 2025 State Civil Aviation Administration Ministry of Culture and Tourism; AZAL CJSC; Ministry of Finance; Ministry of Economy 2017 –2020 2.5.5. Evaluate options to establish strategic partnerships at national level with major airlines, resort chains or travel companies Ministry of Culture and Tourism State Aviation Administration 2017 –2020 88 N Action Main responsible entity Other responsible entities Result indicators Completion date Strategic target 3. Develop regional tourism sub -sectors for domestic and regional tourists 3.1. Revitalize demand for wellness tourism 3.1.1. Prepare an action plan on wellness tourism for 2017 – 2020 Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Health; Relevant Executive Authorities; Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources  It is estimated to bring total of AZN 5 million GDP increase, comprised of AZN 3 million additional direct and AZN 2 million indir ect impacts;  150 new work places by 2020;  Increase capacity utilization rate to 65%;  Increase the current level of 40% to the level of European wellness facilities (U tilization rate of tourism centers in Naphtalan is considered her e) 2017 3.1.2. Facilitate efforts to develop wellness products based on Naphtalan oil Ministry of Culture and Tourism Naftalan city Executive Authority; Ministry of Health; State Oil Company; National Tourism Promotion Bureau 2016 –2019 3.1.3. Undertake restoration and reconstruction works in existing accommodation alternatives, wellness facilities and other locations attractive for tourists in Galaalti, Naphtalan and Duzdag Ministry of Economy Ministry of Culture and Tourism; Tourism Council 2017 –2020 3.1.4. Initiate express and high quality bus and train services between Baku and Naphtalan Ministry of Transport Ministry of Cu lture and Tourism; Azerbaijan Railways CJSC; National Tourism Promotion Bureau 2017 –2018 3.2. Support the development of winter tourism 3.2.1. Improve transportation options Ministry of Transport Ministry of Culture and Tourism; State Civil Aviation Administration; AZAL CJSC; National  It is estimated to bring additional AZN 10 million direct and AZN 10 million indi rect GDP increase by 2017 –2018 89 N Action Main responsible entity Other responsible entities Result indicators Completion date Tourism Promotion Bureau 2020, totaling to AZN 20 million impact to GDP;  An employment increase of 300 jobs created by 2020;  Increase in room booking in the existing ski resort hotels with 50% average annual growth rate, which drives occupancy ratio to the triple of 2015 levels, while keeping 195 AZN revenue per night per tourist, including accommodation, leisure and food 3.2.2. Organize meetings, international conferences and events (MICE) in winter tourism centers Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Economy 2017 –2020 3.2.3. In order to increase the tourist flow of tourist from regional countries, organize big and attractive festivals in winter tourism resorts in different seasons Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Finance; National Tourism Promotion Bureau 2017 –2020 3.2.4. Conduct analysis to evaluate the current status of state –owned hotels in winter tourism areas and improve accommodation options Ministry of Culture and Tourism State Committee for Property Issues; Ministry of E conomy 2017 –2020 3.2.5. Develop and expand a mountain – ski training program in selected schools Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Youth and Sports; Ministry of Education 2017 –2020 3.3. Create cultural tourism circuits 3.3.1. Draw routes of daily to weekly driving and walking routes for all cultural, historical and national park attraction points in northern, northern -western and western corridors of Azerbaijan Ministry of Culture and Tourism  By 2020, it is estimated bring AZN 20 million: AZN 10 million direct and AZN 10 million indirect GDP increase;  It is also estimated to bring 3,700 employment increase, including 2700 employment in tourism sector;  Establishment of 24 destination stops to be built along the selected cultural routes , creation of tourism stops for additional services 2017 –2018 3.3.2. Develop a certificat ion program for tourist guide son Silk Way and other cultural routes Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Education 2017 –2020 3.3.3. Ensure provision of funds as specified by Priority 1.4 to incentivize the development of tourism infrastructure and provide consultancy services to entrepreneurs Ministry of Economy Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Ministry of Transport 2017 –2020 90 N Action Main responsible entity Other responsible entities Result indicators Completion date 3.3.4. Promote new cultural tourism route s Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Foreign Affairs; State Border Service with different stay packages of “7 nights”, “5 nights”, “3 nights”, “1 night” and “daily” to be offered;  Attracting 180 thousand tourists to these destination stops ;  Average accommodation costs along these cultural routes and daily expenses related to the utilization of these cultural routes will be 30% lower compared to tourist expenses in Baku 2017 –2020 3.4. Support development of business tourism 3.4.1. Identify and develop new target markets Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 –2020 3.4.2. Strengthen positions in markets of Russian Federation and Middle East countries Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Foreign Affairs  Twice as many business tourists are estimated to come to Azerbaijan by 2020 as compared to 2016 2017 –2019 3.4.3. Create Honorary Ambassadors Club for Meetings Industry Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 3.4.4. Support development of MICE tourism in the regions Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 –2020 3.4.5. Participate in international events and organize promotion visits Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 –2020 3.4.6. Build cooperation with international business tourism organizations Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 –2020 91 N Action Main responsible entity Other responsible entities Result indicators Completion date 3.5. Strengthen sustainable tourism potential (eco – tourism, rural tourism, etc.) 3.5.1. Study Azerbaijan’s eco -tourism potential and organize various tourism activities in national parks Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources  Impact of this priority on GDP is reflected in the results of Priority 3.3 . 2017 –2020 3.5.2. Develop rural tourism in Azerbaijan Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Economy 2017 –2020 3.5.3. Create and Promote Shamakhy Safari Park Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 –2020 Strategic objective 4. Create a national tourism quality system to increase tourist’s satisfaction 4.1. Investment in tourism education programs 4.1.1. Create a working group to coordinate efforts to improve vocational education and training programs in tourism Tourism Council Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Education  Its employment impact will be additional 150 employments by 2020. 2017 4.1.2. Implementation of several measures by the working group Tourism Council Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 –2020 4.1.3. Establish vocational tourism schools under the Azerbaijan Tourism and Management University Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Education 2017 –2020 4.1.4. Take measures for the preparation of professional standards and curriculum for tourism sector education and certification of tourism guides Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Education 2017 –2020 4.1.5. Organize educational workshops for other sector representatives Tourisms Council Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 –2020 92 N Action Main responsible entity Other responsible entities Result indicators Completion date 4.1.6. Take measures to create MBA programs in tourism Ministry of Culture and Tourism Ministry of Education 2017 –2020 4.2. Improve standardization and certification system in tourism sector 4.2.1. Amendment s and changes to legislation Ministry of Culture and Tourism State Committee for Standardization, Metrology and Paten ts  It will be a key enabler for other priorities , but will not have direct impact on GDP and employment 2017 –2018 4.2.2. Prepare new national standards and manuals State Committee for Standardization, Metrology and Paten ts Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 –2020 4.2.3. Improve the existing standards State Committee for Standardization, Metrology and Paten ts Ministry of Culture and Tourism 2017 –2020
Azerbaijan the topic: Parliamentary Investigation in foreign countries 500-600 words. Written assignment: you need to do a summary + including some personal analysis the summary needs to be–, stra
DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 1 “AZERBAIJAN 2020: LOOK INTO THE FUTURE” CONCEPT OF DEVELOPMENT CONTENTS 1. The current situation 2. Modern challenges 3. Azerbaijan 2020: Strategic View and Main Priorities 4. Towards a highly competitive economy 4.1 The formation of an economic model based on effec tive state regulation and mature market relations 4.2 The improvement of the economic structure and the development of the non -oil sector 4.3 Support for scientific potential and innovative activity 5. The improvement of the transport, transit and logistic infrastruc ture. The balanced development of regions 6. The development of information and communication technologies and ensuring transition to an information society 7. The development of human capital and the establishment of an effective social security system 7.1 The main tasks in the sphere of the population’s health and the health care system 7.2 The formation of a modern education system 7.3 The improvement of the social security system 7.4 The provision of gender equality and the development of family 7.5 The development of youth pote ntial and sports 8. The improvement of legislation and strengthening of institutional potential 9. The development of civil society 10. The protection and effective management of cultural heritage 11. Environmental protection and ecological issues DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 2 1. The current situat ion Modern Azerbaijan has travelled a complicated and at the same time, honourable path in the 20 years of its independence. The deep crisis of the socialist public -political system and the breakup of a huge country like the Soviet Union in the early 1990s resulted in political chaos, economic paralysis and social collapse in Azerbaijan like in other post -Soviet countries. At that time, military aggression against our country, the occupation of 20 per cent of the country’s territory and the displacement of more than one million Azerbaijanis from their homes as a result of the policy of genocide and occupation pursued by Armenian nationalists extremely exacerbated the situation. Beginning from the middle of the 1990s, our country gradually started to revive a nd take confident steps towards resolving fateful issues under the leadership of the great leader Heydar Aliyev. First of all, the sustainability of our state independence was ensured and political stability was established inside the country. At the same time, effective steps were taken to regulate the macroeconomic balance and prevent the hyperinflation that existed at the time, and difficult social issues were resolved with great determination. The foundation of the use of Azerbaijan’s hydrocarbon reserv es for the benefit of the people was laid by the signing of the “Contract of the Century” in that period. At the same time, well -thought out large -scale economic reforms were launched. The foundation of the comprehensive institutional changes aimed at repl acing the administrative – command system inherited from the Soviet period with new free competitive relations, purposeful policy measures to form a market economy system, important changes such as the privatization of state -owned property and the formation of new property relations was laid precisely in that period. The further deepening of the large -scale reforms conducted in our country after 2000 created favourable opportunities for rapid development and allowed our society to rise to a higher level of so cioeconomic development. Important steps were taken to improve the investment environment in the country and state administration was re – established in compliance with modern criteria. The dynamics of economic growth, which gained a new impulse through the comprehensive extraction and export of natural resources and economic growth in Azerbaijan even during the 2009 global economic crisis, show that the strategic line that was chosen was being conducted successfully. Along with that, with the channelling of oil revenues into the non -oil sector, serious achievements were secured in the development DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 3 of this sphere, and the average annual growth rate in the non -oil sector over the past 10 years reached almost 11 per cent. In 2011, the real GDP increased threefol d compared to 2003. According to the results of 2011, Azerbaijan owned more than 70 per cent of added value in the South Caucasus and strengthened its positions as a leading state of the region. Over the past eight years, the country’s strategic currency r eserves increased by more than 22 times and reached 41 billion US dollars at the end of 2011, which is about 10 times higher than the state’s foreign debt. Along with that, the opening of new production spheres and the creation of new jobs in the non -oil s ector, the unprecedented development of the transport and communal infrastructure, the creation of modern social infrastructure enterprises, including the construction of new education, health and sports facilities formed the basis of the general dynamic a nd sustainable progress of our country in this period. It must be especially noted that during these years, Azerbaijan secured significant progress in the effective resolution of social problems, and the system of social security was established anew in co mpliance with advanced international standards. A new pension system was launched, and a system of targeted social assistance and social allowances was established and developed. As a result of the successful social policy, the level of poverty declined fr om 49 per cent in 2000 to 7.6 per cent in 2011, while salaries and pensions increased several times over. As the economic potential of the republic increased, favourable conditions were created for the development of the health system and problems in prote cting the population’s health started to be resolved consistently. The budget allocated to the health system increased by more than 10 times over the past 10 years and now exceeds 650 million manats. Over the past 10 years, more than 400 health institution s, most of which are located in regions of the country, were built or refurbished, and all the health institutions were provided with modern hardware and equipment. Important measures have been taken to protect the health of the republic’s population and i mprove the quality of medical services. Significant achievements were gained in the fight against infectious diseases, and this sphere is always in the focus of attention as a priority sphere of practical medicine. The significant achievements in the spher e of education are directly linked to the socio -economic policy directed at modernizing our country in recent years. Suffice it to say that in 2011, the total amount of budget funds allocated to the education sphere increased by more than five times compar ed to 2003 and reached 1.5 billion manats. Over the past DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 4 period, significant steps have been taken to modernize the education infrastructure in our country and as a result, the conditions of education improved for more than one million pupils. Reforms were carried out to renew the content of education, and important steps were taken to integrate Azerbaijani education into the European education system. Along with that, as part of “the state programme on the education of Azerbaijani youths in foreign countri es in 2007 -2015”, 1,204 people have been sent abroad so far at the expense of the State Oil Fund. In general, 10,700 young Azerbaijanis are being educated in the leading universities of the world at the expense of other sources and on personal initiative. Significant achievements were gained in the sphere of computerizing education. Although in 2004, there was one computer per 1,063 pupils, the correlation now is one computer per 20 pupils. As part of the “People’s Computer” project, more than 10,000 teache rs were provided with computers, 1,200 educational institutions were connected to the Internet and 75,000 people underwent relevant training covering pedagogical and technical personnel and learnt ICT skills. Educational resources on various subjects were prepared and handed over to schools, while an “electronic school” project was launched in 20 schools. The country’s achievements in the socio -economic sphere are also reflected in the improving assessments of the Azerbaijani economy by international rating agencies (Fitch Ratings, Moody’s, Standard & Poors). In the report “Doing Business” prepared by the World Bank and International Finance Corporation, Azerbaijan’s position improved, and the country took the leading position among the CIS and regional coun tries in the Global Competitiveness Report of the World Economic Forum. In the World Bank classification of per capita GDP, Azerbaijan entered the group of countries 1 with “high average incomes” earlier than other CIS states. Along with that, according to the report of the UN Development Programme on human development in 2010, Azerbaijan left the group of countries with “average human development” and entered the group with “high human development”. The formation of a democratic society and transparent publ ic relations in Azerbaijan in the years of independence formed the main basis of state policy. Political pluralism in the country became the necessary basis of public progress in the country. Currently, there are appropriate legal and democratic political conditions for the free activities of political parties in the country. Today, 55 political parties are registered in Azerbaijan, and 11 of them are represented in the parliament. Political parties are closely involved in the public – political life of the c ountry and are represented in elected and other government bodies. 1 Countries are grouped on the basis of the GDP c alculated in 2010 using the Atlas method of the World Bank. Countries where per capital GDP is 1,005 US dollars or less belong to the group of low -income countries, 1,006 -3,975 US dollars – countries with low average income, 3,976 -12,275 US dollars – count ries with high average income, and 12,276 and more – high -income countries. DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 5 Additional opportunities have been created to strengthen the material -technical base of political parties and increase their role in the country’s political system and in the development of civil society. The formation of a new system of public relations based on democratic values resulted in important changes in the structure of society and created conditions for citizens to play a more active role in public -political processes. The civil s ociety in the country is currently experiencing an active phase of development. More than 2,700 NGOs are operating in the sphere of human rights, education, health, culture, economy, social issues, ecology, gender and other spheres, and their number is ste adily increasing. Over the past 10 years, important steps have been taken to create NGOs and improve the legislative base in order to make effective use of their potential. The necessary environment has been secured to provide NGOs with access to financial sources. Along with that, a free and pluralist press is taking shape in the Azerbaijan Republic in line with world standards. All this was possible as a result of the consistent conduct of a well -thought out and purposeful policy. The state programmes ado pted by the country’s leadership, concept and strategic documents and their practical implementation are of special importance as a mechanism of implementing this policy. Suffice it say that there are currently 60 state programmes, strategies and concepts in place, and these are of special importance in developing all spheres of our country’s public life. We can say with full confidence that the transitional period has already ended in Azerbaijan. A new socio -economic system, which is based on free market r elations and political pluralism and has its own rules, has been established. The formation of the appropriate infrastructure for the functioning of an effective economy is nearing the end. A reliable system of social security has been established for the population, and this system is currently improving. The President of the Azerbaijan Republic issued an instruction on the preparation of the Development Concept “Azerbaijan – 2020: Look into the Future”. The need to prepare such a concept is due to the fac t that our country has stepped into a new stage of development. The achievements that have been gained allow Azerbaijan to set even higher goals and determine the tasks that stem from these goals. 2. Modern challenges The information and communication tec hnologies that rapidly developed and spread in the first decade of the 21 st century and the processes of globalization that received a DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 6 new impetus in this regard are seriously affecting the socio -economic life of various countries. In this sense, Azerbaija n is no exception. Factors of a global and planetary nature are penetrating the flow of processes almost in all the spheres of the country’s life – economic, social, political, humanitarian -cultural, etc. Along with that, as is the case in any country, in Azerbaijan there are also regional (typical of regional countries) and domestic factors by origin and sphere of influence, and taking them into account in managing various spheres of the country’s public life is of special importance in terms of forming an effective policy. The main factors (challenges) are divided as follows for convenience. 1. With the gradual intensification of innovative activity at a qualitatively new level in conditions of globalization, the pace of change in economic processes in the whole world, copying of innovations and their application in the sphere of production is increasing in an unprecedented manner. This, in fact, is the “positively charged” effect of globalization and gradually allows an increasing number of countries to be nefit from achievements in the sphere of innovations, advanced technical standards and new methods in management. According to predictions, world economic growth in the short – and medium -term will take place precisely as a result of this factor. In the com ing years, trade is expected to grow more rapidly than production worldwide and globalization and regional integration is expected to expand even further. It is believed that new standards will be determined regarding international trade, competition, inte llectual property and the environment and the role of international organization in this sphere will strengthen. The global and regional competitiveness of countries that prefer specialization on the international market, develop production technologies an d innovative potential and thus promote the fields that create higher added value is expected to increase. The development of industry on the basis of innovations will be possible as a result of the strengthening of scientific and technological potential a nd expansion of education opportunities. It is important to ensure that developing countries achieve economic growth based on productivity and form comparatively more advantageous production spheres. 2. In this situation, the main issue facing Azerbaijan i s that countries of the world do not retreat in the process of development. This, first and foremost, requires constant attention to such an important issue as preventing the danger of the country turning into a raw material appendage for the world economy in the medium – and long -term and becoming a technological “outsider” by eliminating the economy’s current dependence on the export of hydrocarbon reserves. Although the export of hydrocarbons has been the main driving force of economic growth in the past decade, the main issue facing us at the current stage is to ensure the rapid development of the non -oil sector, increase the effectiveness and competitiveness of the economy and secure its progress based on DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 7 innovations. In other words, it is necessary to l ay the foundations of transition from a traditional economy to a “knowledge -based economy” now and prioritize the appropriate development of human capital, which is a decisive factor for this. Along with putting forward relevant requirements for the format ion of the economic model, this also leads to drastic changes in the education system and increases the importance of such components of education as additional and lifelong education and signifies the growing role of ICT and virtual education and knowledg e of computer networks. At the same time, the importance of intellectual property, the main mission of which is to stimulate creativity and innovation and support the regulation of the market, will also increase. 3. Globalization, which brought great risks along with broad opportunities, has increased the tendencies of free production on the global scale, trade, capital flight and labour migration. The uncertain nature of development in countries of the world strengthened even further and the countries rega rded as centres of power that have a decisive role in determining the dynamics of the world economy were joined by new countries – China, India, Brazil and so on. In turn, this affects economic and trade relations and the redistribution of resources and al so leads to the strengthening of international competition. The next period will be characterized by the change of the balance between the main centres of the world economy, its reconstruction in this regard and the strengthening of the role of regional ec onomic unions. This opens new opportunities for Azerbaijan in terms of foreign economic integration and allows it to prefer the global context in the direction of socio -economic development, go beyond the local regional framework and benefit from involveme nt in the economic relations and markets of various economic areas. Currently, the special weight of economies developing both as the destination and source of foreign investments is increasing. It is predicted that during the post -crisis period, the pace of economic growth in high -income countries will be about twice as less as in developing countries. As a result, developing countries will be the main locomotive of global economic growth. 4. One of the characteristic features of globalization is the sprea d of “negatively charged” processes along with such a positive factor as the spread of technologies and innovations and the ability of these processes to “take over” the countries involved in worldwide economic integration. From this point of view, the glo bal economic crisis, which began in 2008 and is now continuing on a new wave, stands out for its scope in history. The Azerbaijani economy was quite well -prepared for the global crisis and maintained the surplus in the net international investment position and the stable rate of the manat despite high investment risks at the time of the crisis and the influence of the wave of devaluation in neighbouring countries. This was possible due to the rational macroeconomic and DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 8 monetary policy in the country before the crisis, currency reserves that had been created and the forward management of financial risks. Along with that, the global crisis and its consequences necessitate the creation and strengthening of protective mechanisms against depressive scenarios in m odern economic architecture. Along with traditional rescue financial funds, it is of special importance to take special anti -crisis measures that will be used in the state regulation of the economy, secure the diverse structure of the national economy and its ability to quickly adapt to new conditions. 5. In the current stage, one of the issues facing humanity and having a great influence on the public and political life of every country is the disruption of the ecological balance as a result of industriali zation which has been speeding up worldwide for years. In the local and regional context, Azerbaijan’s ecological problems are mainly related to oil extraction carried out for decades with imperfect methods in the Absheron Peninsula and Caspian Sea without taking into account the ecological consequences. Apart from that, the mass extermination of flora and fauna in the country’s Armenian – occupied territories and large -scare arson fires on this territory have become one of the biggest ecological problems. Th e formation of a large amount of Azerbaijan’s freshwater reserves in neighbouring countries and their intensive contamination with chemical, radioactive and other harmful substances on the territory of these countries causes problems in supplying drinking water to the population. Apart from that, the Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant, which is located in the seismic zone in Armenia and is outdated from a technological point of view, is a source of danger for the entire region. As a manifestation of the environme ntal balance on the planetary scale, climate change and global warming are related to processes that can cause natural disasters (rivers bursting their banks, flooding of entire villages and cities, precipitation much higher than the norm, avalanches, etc. ). All these are factors that directly affect the economic and social life of the country and need to be taken into account in the process of preparing necessary policy measures. The experience of recent years shows that in order to effectively fight natur al disasters and their consequences, the state should prioritize relevant activities in emergencies and the establishment of rapid reaction mechanisms for the social security of the population in such situations. At the same time, while drafting and implem enting infrastructure projects in regions of the country, the high likelihood of natural disasters should be taken into account, and relevant requirements should be considered while designing and building infrastructure facilities of vital importance to en sure that they keep their functionality as required. DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 9 3. Azerbaijan 2020: Strategic View and Main Priorities The main strategic view of the concept is to take account of the current opportunities and resources and attain a stage characterized by sustainabl e economic growth and high social welfare, effective state management and supremacy of the law, the full ensuring of all human rights and freedoms and the active status of the civil society in the country’s public life. In 2020, Azerbaijan will be an econ omically and politically developed and competitive country. Even in the most remote villages of Azerbaijan, all communications required in the daily lives of citizens (communications, Internet, banking services, public utilitizies, roads and so on), health and education services will be provided. Azerbaijan will be a place where the population’s incomes are high, unemployment is minimum, human capital is highly developed, the environment is protected and health and every citizen has broad opportunities. As a result of the measures stipulated by the concept, by the end of the period, the volume of per capita GDP in the country will increase more than twice and reach 13,000 US dollars. According to the World Bank classification of GDP, in 2020 Azerbaijan is e xpected to become a full member of the group of “countries with high average income” and eliminate its dependence on the export of hydrocarbons, which is the main reason for its belonging to this group at the moment, and to reach the highest positions in t he group of “countries with high human development” according to the human development classification of the UN Development Programme. From an economic point of view, the Azerbaijan Republic will turn from the region’s leading state into a highly competiti ve participant in the international system of economic relations. To this end, taking into account the favourable geographical position and broad potential, it is planned to turn the country into the region’s commercial centre and to bring the volume of pe r capita non -oil export to 1,000 US dollars. In order to achieve the aforesaid goal, state regulation which ensures healthy competition in market economy conditions, transformation into an export -oriented economy that makes efficient use of energy and crea tes high added value and principles of a complex approach to the development of socio -economic spheres will be taken as a basis. Within the framework of the concept, it is planned to turn the country’s economy into an economy based on efficiency as a resul t of a growth in general productivity and ensure transition to a stage characterized by the dominance of innovations. Increasing the competitiveness of the economy encompasses such fields as the protection of macroeconomic stability, the strengthening of t he coordination of the DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 10 monetary and fiscal policy, the improvement of the business environment, support for private initiative, the development of the market of financial services and the improvement of the foreign trade and investment policy. During this period, it is planned to keep inflation at the acceptable level and ensure gradual transition to a more flexible currency rate. At the same time, purposeful measures will be taken to improve the structure of the economy. The modernization of the oil and ga s sector and the petrochemical industry, the diversification and development of the non -oil industry, the expansion of opportunities to use alternative and renewable energy sources, the development of the agrarian sector, the strengthening of food security , expansion and development of trade and types of services and the improvement of the foreign trade and investment structure will be priority spheres. It is planned that during the period covered by the concept, the average pace of annual real growth in GD P in the non -oil sector will be more than 7 per cent. The main task in the current stage is to speed up the diversification of the economy, to maintain the high pace of the development of the non -oil sector in the future regardless of the level of oil reve nues, to increase competitiveness and to develop export possibilities. In the Development Concept “Azerbaijan 2020: Look into the Future”, an export -oriented economic model is taken as a basis, and it is planned that increasing the competitiveness of the e conomy and improvement of the structure will boost non -oil exports. Along with the speedy development of the non -oil industry, the promotion and expansion of innovative activity will create favourable grounds for the formation of an economy based on knowle dge in the country. In order to achieve these goals, it is important to make full use of all the country’s possibilities, to make effective use of the existing economic, social and political resources and create conditions for strengthening the country’s p otential. From this point of view, it is planned to develop the energy, transport, transit and logistical infrastructure, to concentrate on the development of regions, to form regional development centres taking into account the competitive advantages of e ach region and to develop the infrastructure and social services in cities and villages. The expansion of opportunities for using ICT and communication services, the creation of a reliable security system aimed at developing information and communication technologies, the formation of national standards, as well as the launch of totally digital broadcasting across the country and the halting of analog broadcasting, and the total use of e -government services will be in the centre of attention as one of the m ain priorities in the formation of Azerbaijan as a modern state. The purpose of any economic growth is to increase social welfare. From this point of view, one of the main priorities of the concept is the development of social spheres and human capital. Wi thin these priorities, the main spheres are to increase the quality of DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 11 education and services, to strengthen social security, ensure gender equality and to develop the family, youth potential and sports. The issue of poverty within the framework of the con cept is assessed at the level of the concept of “multi -factor poverty” in line with modern approaches to the human development concept. Over the past 10 years, Azerbaijan has gained undeniable achievements in drastically reducing poverty. The settlement of the problem of “absolute poverty” in our country, i.e. the sharp decline in the number of families included in the category of the poor within the framework of accepted criteria is a result of the successful socio -economic policy. Within the framework of the current concept, the problem of “absolute poverty” will constantly be in the centre of attention again, and along with that, the expansion of the middle class and the strengthening of the role of this class is one of the main purposes. The experience o f various countries shows that countries with a stronger middle class are more sustainable from political, economic, social and other aspects and have higher development potential. Quantitative and qualitative indicators linked with the population and its structure are the main elements of national power, and the protection of the gene pool of the Azerbaijani people, issues like migration and demography are of special importance in terms of national security. During the period covered by the concept, the co untry’s population will increase by 1.1 per cent a year on average and is expected to total about 10.2 million in 2020. In order to realize the targets stipulated by the concept, measures will continue to constantly improve the legislative base and strengt hen the appropriate institutional potential. The preservation of cultural heritage, its effective management, the protection and enrichment of new creative results, environmental and ecological problems are accepted as the main priority within the framewor k of the concept, and it is planned to take the appropriate policy measures in these fields. 4. Towards an economy with high competitive power 4.1. The formation of an economic model based on effective state regulation and mature market relations Achievi ng the socio -economic targets set within the framework of the concept makes it necessary to form an economic system that is working highly effectively and has enough competitive power on a global scale. Historical and modern experience shows that such a sy stem can emerge only in market relations based on private initiative and free DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 12 competition. Along with that, ensuring a sustainable high pace of growth in economic and social spheres requires the appropriate establishment of state regulation in market relat ions and the improvement of this regulation considering the latest tendencies and spheres in the world economy. At the time of the end of the transitional period and formation of mature market relations in Azerbaijan, state regulatory and administrative fu nctions will be carried out in order to maintain macroeconomic stability, improve the business environment in the country, ensure free competition, create favourable conditions for local and foreign investments, implement regulatory measures to improve the structure of the economy, implement investment and large -scale infrastructure projects and effectively organize the social protection of the population. The coordination of the macroeconomic policy will strengthen, an optimal macroeconomic framework will take shape in terms of financial sustainability and an appropriate monetary policy will be conducted. The first stage of this policy will include the target of inflation, other macroeconomic targets and appropriate regulatory tools and the second stage – targets of stability in the financial sector, activity in the sector and tools that will manage risks. In line with the target of inflation, special attention will be paid to meeting the economy’s demand for money and the institutional basis of monetary man agement will improve. Special attention will be paid to the establishment of fiscal discipline in the sphere of forming and using budget resources, correct distribution of funds and increasing the efficiency of expenses. Quick assessments of various budget risks (foreign, financial, operational risks, etc.) will be carried out. In order to increase the competitiveness of the economic system even further, the passive taxation policy will gradually transform into an active taxation policy, while the measures to be carried out to improve tax rates will help create a favourable environment for business activity. The mechanism of using oil and gas reserves will improve. A strategy will be implemented to gradually replace the revenues from the sale of hydrocarbon reserves with revenues gained from investing those funds, and work in this sphere will intensify. A more flexible currency policy will be conducted as a separate important requirement of improving the country’s solvency and orienting the economy towards ex port, and the surplus in the net international investment rate will be maintained. Measures to improve the business environment, the legislation and policy on competitiveness will continue and mechanisms of protecting investors’ rights will be DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 13 improved. Th e sustainable and fair enforcement of laws and the formation of an effective mechanism for the supremacy of the law will be kept in the centre of attention. Measures will be taken to simplify and enhance foreign trade procedures and increase state support for entrepreneurs in increasing their competitiveness on foreign markets. Promotional activities will be carried out in order to increase the export capability of small and medium -sized businesses, the provision of preferential loans to businesses by the s tate will increase, anti -dumping and other protective measures accepted in international practice will be taken to protect the domestic market from unfair competition. At the same time, efforts will be mobilized to enhance customs, migration and other proc edures and eliminate the factors that put investors off the local market. Conducting reforms in line with the international trade system in order to join the World Trade Organization (WTO) and bringing laws in line with practices applied in the world trade system will ultimately open new opportunities for the development of local companies and the country’s economy in general. Along with that, the measures that will be taken to optimize the structure of tax rates and mandatory state social insurance fees (t he parts paid by employers and insured parties) will help create favourable conditions for business activity. Measures to form a fair competitive environment and restrict monopolies in the economy and especially on the consumer market will continue. Anti -m onopoly laws and practices will be improved and practical measures will be taken to eliminate non -tariff obstacles being applied in trade. The protection of consumers’ rights will be improved, effective mechanisms to control the quality of products will be created, national standards of quality control will be prepared and the system of certification will be improved. The creation and development of public unions of entrepreneurs, including professional associations, will be supported and monitoring will be carried out regularly in order to detect and eliminate the factors that prevent the development of business. The measures that will be carried out in the period covered by the concept will ensure the balanced development of the main segments of the market of financial services in Azerbaijan (banking sector, non -banking credit organizations, insurance market, leasing market, securities market and factoring market). Banking control instruments will be improved, and appropriate measures will be taken to ensur e the stable and safe development of the banking system. Consolidation measures and structural reforms in the banking sector will continue, and stimulation of competition, increasing the quality of banking -financial services, including the improvement of t he infrastructure of electronic DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 14 payment systems and the expansion of its coverage zone will be kept in the centre of attention. The capitalization of the banking system will continue, the expansion of the banking network in regions will be promoted and the mechanism of mortgage loans will improve. The electronic payment, post and savings systems will develop and the protection of the rights of users of banking services will strengthen. The increasing level of capitalization in insurance companies and the gr owing range of insurance products, repeat insurance, as well as the expansion of the use of life insurance and medical insurance will open the way for the development of the insurance market in the country. In order to stimulate the insurance of agricultur al produce, it is planned to improve the appropriate legislation. Also, the improvement of the legislative and institutional environment for the provision of leasing services will allow leasing organizations to develop and easily enter the market, which wi ll increase the share of leasing as an important source of finances in implementing the infrastructure and investment projects of leasing organizations and in improving the supply of equipment to agriculture. Important steps will be taken to form a securit ies market that will provide the economy with broad capitalization opportunities that meet modern, international standards and ensure reliable risk management. Systemic measures will be taken in order to limit the disorganized market of securities and incr ease the attractiveness of the market for investors, and the legislation that regulates the activities of the market’s professional participants and mechanisms of overseeing them. It is planned to take measures to improve the institutional development leve l of the securities market, ensure that it meets international standards, increase the rate of capitalization in the country’s economy and expand the use of non -inflationary investment funds directed at the financing of economic projects through the stock market. At the same time, the formation of appropriate conditions for economic entities and the population to efficiently place their savings on the stock market and gradually integrate the country’s securities market into the international capital market will always be in the centre of attention. 4.2 The improvement of the economic structure and the development of the non -oil sector During the period covered by the concept, it is planned to build, reconstruct and modernize systems for the extraction, tra nsportation and refining of oil and gas. Also, within the framework of the development of the economy on the basis of clusters, it is planned to build a complex consisting of oil and gas refineries and petrochemical factories. The establishment of the comp lex will make it possible to attract the necessary DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 15 investments, observe environmental rules, establish a production chain up to the manufacture of the end product, increase the competitiveness of finished products and expand export and the range in this fi eld. At the same time, the involvement of the country’s natural and economic resources in the economic turnover will expand and the efficiency of their use will increase. During the period covered by the concept, it is planned to carry out stimulating meas ures to speed up the use of alternative (renewable) energy sources, develop the institutional environment, strengthen the scientific -technical potential, continue training specialists and enlighten energy consumers. Along with projects carried out by the s tate in this field, the close involvement of the private sector in this process will be promoted and the quick regulation of alternative energy tariffs will be ensured. A production, social and market infrastructure network that serves to develop the non -oil sector and meets modern requirements and the use of modern forms of economy and management will be expanded. Measures will be carried out in regions to establish the activities of industrial enterprises based on local raw materials at a qualitatively ne w level and to create new enterprises. During the period when the concept is implemented, steelworks, oil and gas refineries, petrochemical complexes, fertilizer factories, shipyards and cement plants will be built in the country. The aluminium industry wi ll be developed, the production of first aluminium will increase, a technological chain up to the production of the end product will be established with the involvement of the private sector and the potential of export in this sphere will expand. The use o f innovative technologies in industrial enterprises will be stimulated and special and general industrial estates will be set up. Along with the development of the non -oil processing industry, the formation of the industrial estate infrastructure in econom ic districts will be the main sphere of the state investment policy. From this point of view, during the period covered by the concept, it is planned to create a special economic zone and industrial estates in every economic district taking into account ec onomic potential (including industrial estates for the processing of petrochemical products in Sumgayit, the processing of domestic waste in Balakhani and the production of metal (aluminium) products in Ganja). Along with the development and boosting of th e export potential of the traditional production spheres of the non -oil industry (chemical industry, metallurgy, machinery construction, electrotechnology, electronics, light industry, food industry, etc.), the creation of new competitive spheres will be s upported. Stimulating mechanisms will be applied to intensify local and foreign investment in the country’s non -oil sector, while the investment DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 16 cooperation of the state -run and private sector in order to develop the export -oriented non – oil sector will be developed. Measures will be taken to encourage intellectual activity, create favourable conditions for investment in innovation and creativity, ensure the sustainable development of a creative economy based on intellectual property and increase its share in the country’s GDP. Within the framework of the concept, it is planned to develop the tourism infrastructure, expand the scope of tourist services that meet international standards, increase the competitiveness of this sphere and increase its special rol e in GDP. In order to develop tourism, legislation and standards regarding this sphere will be improved, the necessary measures will be taken to make full use of the tourism potential of the Caspian Sea, tourism activities will be stimulated in the regions , information and propaganda work will be strengthened, and various types of tourism and relevant tourism routes will be created and promoted on the basis of national, historical -cultural, socio -economic and natural features. Special attention will be paid to the processing of agricultural produce as a sphere that is of special importance in terms of developing the non -oil industry, and complex measures will be taken to increase the productive capability of existing agrarian – processing enterprises as a resu lt of the application of modern technologies and to create new enterprises. State support will continue in line with international experience in order to stimulate the intensive and effective development of the agrarian sector. Additional measures will be taken to create an environment where the allocation of funds (loans) to this sector by private banks and credit organizations will be encouraged, while the mechanism of insuring agriculture will be improved. As a result, productivity in agriculture will in crease and the rural population will become more closely acquainted with advanced international experience. In the next few years, the land market in the country will develop and farmers will be encouraged to join farming traditions on a voluntary basis. M elioration and irrigation measures will be strengthened, and measures will be intensified to prevent soil erosion and the salination of irrigated sowing areas and to increase fertility. The production of eco -friendly agricultural and food products in the c ountry will be stimulated. Also, purposeful measures will be taken to protect genetic reserves and biodiversity and to improve the production of saplings and seedlings, and breeding work. The provision of agricultural producers with modern equipment, ferti lizers, seeds and seedlings will improve. In the agrarian sphere, it is planned to improve scientific support and staff training in the agrarian sector. In order to ensure the intensive DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 17 development of various agricultural spheres, stimulating measures will be implemented and initiatives to support major grain -growing farms will be supported. Considering the importance of creating warehouse complexes on the basis of the most modern technologies in the region in terms of the intensive development of agricultu re, the regulation of seasonal prices, prevention of loss of the harvest, protection of the domestic market and export potential, and consistent measures in this sphere will continue. 4.3 Support for scientific potential and innovative activity In order t o ensure long -term sustainable economic development, form a knowledge – based economy and speed up the creation of science intensive technology and products (work and service), the expansion of innovative activity will one of the main fields. In this connect ion, the development of science will be prioritized on the basis of its history in our country and global tendencies, and the process of effective integration into progressive world science will be continued. The scientific infrastructure will be improved, the material – technical basis of science will be modernized and the digitalization of information support systems in this sphere will be ensured. At the same time, along with state funding, the financing of science from other sources will be stimulated, an d this will ultimately strengthen the social protection of those engaged in scientific activity and prevent “brain drain”. In order to create an innovative economy in the country, the link between science and production will be strengthened, and the necess ary mechanisms will be created in order to carry out applied scientific studies in line with the requirements of the market. State support measures will be implemented and the relevant legislative basis will be created in order to stimulate the manufactur e of competitive products through increasing innovative activity, establish the necessary mechanisms to implement innovative activity, make effective use of innovative potential and ensure development. Along with the development of innovative entrepreneur ship and the creation of a favourable environment for the development of new types of activities and products, it is planned to strengthen measures to transfer and use advanced technologies and to create industrial parks and innovative zones to develop and apply science intensive products and technologies. From this point of view, a relevant legislative basis will be prepared and adopted, and it is planned to set up a State Fund for the Development of Information Technologies in order to develop an economy based on innovative entrepreneurship and knowledge. DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 18 The determination of links between economic goals and reserves, knowledge and the duties of the cultural sphere, and the development of information technologies will help develop innovative potential ref lected in the National Strategy on Intellectual Property and the related state programme in the long -term. In the next few years, advanced world experience will be used to complete the process of forming a national innovation system that ensures the use, study and spread of new knowledge and technologies in line with the requirements of the information society in Azerbaijan. 5. The improvement of the transport infrastructure. The balanced development of regions In order to turn Azerbaijan into a regional trade hub, it is planned to make effective use of the country’s strategic geographical position, develop transit and transport services and form logistical centres in the regions of the country. All this will also increase the country’s attractiveness as a production and investment centre and help create new business and employment opportunities. The mechanism of managing local and international cargo transportation will improve and the integration of the country’s transport system into the international transport system will expand. In this regard, it is planned to take general measures that reflect a united strategic approach to automobile, railway, water, air and underground (metro) transport. In order to boost the country’s competitiveness in the Europ e-Caucasus -Asia and North -South transport corridors, measures will be carried out to reduce the cost of cargo transportation in Azerbaijani territory, reduce the time of import and export operations and transit, and simplify procedures. In the coming year s, the construction of the International Sea Trade Port in Alat will be completed, the maritime fleet will be updated and expanded, a transport -logistical centre will be built, the Baku -Boyuk Kasik and Baku -Yalama railways will be restored and modernized a nd the Baku -Tbilisi -Kars railway will be put into operation in line with the policy of diversifying the railway network. At the same time, the necessary reconstruction work will be carried on the main railways, the rolling stock will be updated and transit ion to an alternative current system in all railways will ensured. In the East -West and North -South transport corridors, the country’s road and transport infrastructure will be brought in line with international standards with the widening of roads and co mpletion of projects to reconstruct and build roads of republican DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 19 importance. The construction of new roads will be accompanied with the principle of ensuring the population’s security, the construction of intra -urban and inter -urban car parks will be spee ded up, the relevant infrastructure will be improved and an intellectual management system of transport will be implemented in big cities. The public transport system in the capital and other cities, districts and villages will significantly develop. The country’s railway system and air transport will improve even more and grounds will be created for the regions’ balanced development and diversified progress of tourism. During the period covered by the concept, the Baku metro will rapidly develop and expan d, new stations will be built and the car fleet will be updated. In the sphere of air transport, a new air terminal, runway and hangars will be put into operation at Heydar Aliyev International Airport and a free economic zone will be created in this area . Work to update the other six international airports and the air fleet will continue. Taking into account regional development priorities, the state’s infrastructure and investment policies and business investment strategies will be coordinated and will be prioritized mainly in terms of economic effectiveness (through analysis of expenses and revenues). The differences between the country’s economic regions in terms of quality of life, per capital production and the volume of investment will be reduced. The flexibility of local government bodies in the adoption of economic decisions will be increased within the framework of a modern approach. Special projects will be carried out to develop rural areas and measures will continue to improve the infrastructu re and social services. The problem of roads in regions and villages will be kept in the centre of attention and relevant steps will be taken to meet the demand in the transport sector. The improvement of the infrastructure in the country’s regions, the e xpansion of the use of information technologies, the formation of tourist and recreational zones, territorial production clusters in priority economic spheres and new regional development centres considering the competitive advantages of every region will speed up the socio -economic development of regions. The regional development centres will stimulate balanced socio -economic development in regions and reduce regional inequality and sharp differences in the structure of the commodity turnover in economic districts, and slow down the concentration of economic resources mostly in central cities. DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 20 6. The development of information and communication technologies and ensuring transition to an information society The ensuring of transition to an information so ciety, the establishment of an economy based on knowledge with the development of ICT, the expansion of the use of ICT in state and local government bodies, the development of electronic services, the development of the activities of the National Centre fo r Electronic Security, fully meeting society’s demand for information products and services and the strengthening of competitive and export -oriented ICT potential are priority tasks within the framework of the Concept. Appropriate measures will be taken t o develop the space industry, and Azerbaijan will join the group of countries that have their own artificial satellites. The use of new technologies in the telecommunications network and the package satellite transmission of national radio and TV programme s will be arranged. With the implementation of the Trans -Eurasian Information Super Highway project, it is planned to eliminate the digital difference between regional countries, provide access to cheap and high quality broadband Internet through the crea tion of a strong and sustainable information infrastructure, develop the e -commerce and e -market system, develop legislation in order to protect and ensure the security of participants in e – commerce deals, and speed up the country’s integration into global information space. In the coming years, due to the migration of many facilities protected from mutual interference between ICT and intellectual property and by intellectual property rights, a system will be created to manage digital rights based on the p rovision of services in the format of online television and one stop shops. Important indicators as the number of computers, telephones and mobile communication employees, the number of households that have access to the Internet and broadband communicati on services from home among all the households across the country, and the correlation between the number of pupils and computers allocated to them will improve, especially the level of digital preparedness will increase following the expansion of the use of ICT in the regions. Telephone and Internet tariffs will be optimized and the replacement of TDM telephone exchanges with IP telephone exchanges, the expansion of the use of Wi -Fi technology, the establishment of 4G CDMA stations and the organization of universal telecommunications and post services will be completed. Measures related to the formation of an electronic government stipulate the consistent and staged use of modern information -communication technologies, the implementation of safe informatio n exchange within a single infrastructure, the provision of DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 21 e-services in functional tasks, the ensuring of existing information security, the training of skilled users and specialists and activities in other important spheres. 7. The development of human capital and social spheres The concept prioritizes the provision of high quality health and education services to the population and the availability of these services to various social groups, including low – income families and poor citizens as a strateg ic line. 7.1 The main tasks in the sphere of the population’s health and the health care system To this end, it is planned to dynamically increase the share of the funding for the health system in the gross domestic product and form mechanisms that ensure the effective and purposeful use of the funds. In order to strengthen the logistical base of the health system, health institutions will be constructed, refurbished, reconstructed, provided with modern medical equipment and at the same time, the health ref orm will continue in a planned manner. Measures will be taken to abandon extreme centralization in the management of the health system and to replace purely executive functions in management with administrative -economic forms and thus the powers of various management entities will be effectively separated and their activities will be coordinated. Mandatory medical insurance and on its basis, conditions will be created to improve the quality of medical aid, protect patients’ rights and improve control mecha nisms. As a result of reforms in the health system, medicine oriented towards in -patient aid will be replaced with medicine where first medical sanitary aid is dominant and relevant conditions will be created for expanding the practice of family doctors. A t the same time, active and purposeful work will be carried out to improve out -patient and clinical services. The state will carry out work to fight diseases (diabetes, haemophilia, thalassaemia, oncologic diseases, immunoprophylaxis, hemodialysis, tuberc ulosis, AIDS, etc.) and implement preventive measures, sanitary -educational work, and various state programmes against drug addiction, alcoholism and smoking. Preventive measures against infectious diseases will be strengthened, and a programme will be pre pared to develop the sanitary – epidemiological service in 2015 -2020, which provides for appropriate measures. Along with that, a special strategy will be adopted on the fight against non -infectious diseases (smoking, obesity, lack of physical activity, abus e of alcohol, etc.) in 2013 -2020, and practical measures will be taken to create conditions and opportunities for a healthy lifestyle and expand educational work to boost the population’s responsibility and interest in its health. DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 22 A state programme will be adopted to improve children’s health in 2012 -2020 and preventive checkups and mass health examinations among children and teenagers will be intensified. In order to strengthen the fight against infectious diseases, appropriate measures will be taken amo ng children to carry out immunoprophylaxis. A national action plan (2014 -2020) on the early prevention of typical children’s disability and health institutions will specialize in various spheres in order to improve in -patient services to children. Along w ith that, measures will be taken to ensure that medicines of vital importance are physically and economically accessible to all groups of the population. A single registration system will also be created to ensure that medicines are of high quality, effect ive and safe. Practical steps will be taken to prevent unlicensed and low -quality medicines from entering the market. The issue of improving staffing in the health system will be in the centre of attention as the most important issue, appropriate mechanis ms will be created to constantly enhance knowledge and skills and training will be organized in foreign countries. Appropriate work will be carried out to create proper conditions for doctors and medium – ranking medical staff working in rural areas and enco uraging material support mechanisms will be determined. Measures will be carried out to apply the principle of assessing doctors’ work on the basis of the end result. Various medical electronic registers, a system of citizens’ “electronic health card” and a single health information system will be created to monitor the population’s health. 7.2 The formation of a modern education system In 2012 -2020, the share of the funding for education in GDP will increase from year to year and reach the appropriate in dicator in developed countries. Stimulating mechanisms will be created to increase the quality of education, and the financing of grants that promote per capita funding and innovative activity will be expanded. Management will continue to be improved in e ducation and a management model that ensures the involvement of all interested sides will be prioritized. This will be carried out through reforms to increase the independence of all kinds of education institutions, to manage education centres in a state -public form through the broad involvement of the public (parents, pupils, students, local community, etc.), to apply other modern management technologies, etc. The level of children’s involvement in pre -school education will reach average European indicato rs. To this end, support measures will be carried out and mechanisms of DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 23 encouragement will be created to expand the chain of state kindergartens, create pre – school education institutions that belong to different forms of property (municipal, community, pri vate and family kindergartens) by improving conditions and supplies. Work to construct and refurbish schools will continue and a special programme will be drafted and implemented to rationalize the network of general education institutions. Transition to a 12 -year general education system will be secured. In order to ensure transition from the “memory school” that slows down pupils’ intellectual activity and general development to the “school of ideas and thought”, systemic measures will be implemented. Ed ucation at the level of full secondary education will be organized on the basis of specialization and individual developing programmes will be created for talented children. At the same time, various developing, correcting and inclusive education programme s will be created for children who need special care and have limited physical abilities. University estates (campuses) and appropriate industrial parks will be created for institutions of higher education. Standards will be prepared and applied that will support institutions of higher education in nurturing specialists with knowledge and skills that meet the country’s socio -economic development requirements and in turning into centres of education, research and innovation. The computerization of the info rmation system will always be in the centre of attention as one of the main directions of establishing general education at a modern level. In 2013 -2020, a state programme will be adopted to computerize the education system in the Azerbaijan Republic. With in the framework of the state programme, all the education institutions of Azerbaijan (including schools located in remote regions) will be provided with access to the Internet, every education institution will be provided with the necessary technical equi pment and connected to the single Education Network of Azerbaijan. Every classroom in schools will be provided with a laptop, projector and electronic table, while all pupils will be provided with a netbook or tablets within the framework of the project on e pupil – one computer. The use of electronic education technologies will significantly expand and a virtual learning environment will be created for teachers and pupils. To this end, the creation of electronic education and methodical resources on all su bjects will continue, and “Cloud’ technologies will be used to safely keep electronic resources and ensure easy access to them. Open Education Resources operating free of charge will be created, and these resources will be integrated into the education pro cess and relevant free use with copyright licences. The number of “electronic schools” will reach 1,000. To ensure self – education and the growing demand for lifetime education, libraries will be modernized and opportunities for using digital education reso urces will be expanded. The number of electronic libraries will increase, a Distant Education Centre will be created and the use of distant education in institutions of education will expand. DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 24 The effective integration of ICT into the management of educati on will continue and information -based management mechanisms will be used through the creation of a single information system for education. The use of the system for the electronic turnover of documents will be expanded and as a result, transparency in th e management of the education system will grow. At the same time, an online TV channel Tahsil TV will be established and presented to the general public. Taking into account that the factor of teachers is of special importance in the efficiency of the edu cation and its achievements, special importance will be attached to the strengthening of teachers’ training. All general education teachers will specialize in active/interactive teaching technologies and inclusive education, and a flexible system will be c reated to ensure that every teacher learns ICT skills. The training of Azerbaijani teachers will be brought in line with international standards, a stimulating refresher training system for teachers based on a new module -credit system will be developed and mechanisms that meet modern requirements will be created to ensure teachers’ career development, stimulate their activities and spread the working experience of leading teachers. Along with that, differential salaries and an awarding system based on resul ts will be created. The new mechanism employed in the recruitment of pedagogical staff will be improved even further, and material stimulation measures aimed to providing remote village schools with pedagogical staff will be strengthened. The integration of Azerbaijani education into world and European education will increase. Along with the unification of education standards and deepening of the Bologna Process, attention will be paid to the expansion of the international relations of Azerbaijani institut ions of education, especially institutions of higher education, and the creation of appropriate conditions for their active involvement in international programmes being implemented in the sphere of education. At the same time, the number of Azerbaijani s tudents studying in leading foreign universities at the expense of the state will reach 5,000 by 2015, and the efficient use of the potential of specialists educated abroad in the country’s development will be ensured. A new state programme will be adopted on the education of young people in foreign countries in 2015 -2020. 7.3 The improvement of the social security system In order to ensure social security for the population, purposeful measures will be continued within the framework of the current “state programme on the development of the insurance -pension system in the Azerbaijan Republic in 2009 -2015”. In order to deepen the current pension reform even further, a new state programme will be drafted for 2016 – DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 25 2020. As a result of the measures that will be implemented, the compulsory state social insurance system will improve and state pension saving mechanisms will be created. Issues of transferring some of the compulsory state social insurance fees into a saving account, the application of voluntary pens ion insurance and the involvement of private pension funds in managing the funds accumulated in private saving accounts will be resolved. At the same time, citizens will be provided with easy access to information about the amount of social insurance fees accumulated in their individual accounts. The registration of insurers will be totally automated, the insurees will be automatically registered in the state social insurance system, information about compulsory state social insurance accounts and about in surees will be passed and received electronically, and insurers will be audited automatically. Along with the aforesaid, citizens of the country will not need to provide any document to get their pensions, the appropriate request will be submitted electron ically and pensions will be appointed from a single centre in an automatic way on the basis of electronic requests from citizens. In order to secure a worthy lifestyle for working citizens, measures will be taken, depending on economic development, to gra dually increase the amount of minimum wages to minimum living standards and the norm determined in European countries – 60 per cent of the average monthly salary. The difference in the population’s incomes will be reduced as a result of continuing work to increase the share of wages in the population’s general incomes and appropriate measures in the sphere of social security. Work will be strengthened to ensure safe and healthy working conditions for working citizens and a state programme will be prepared t o protect labour and improve working conditions. A national information system in the field of labour and employment will be created, a system for monitoring and analyzing the situation on the labour market will be established and serious measures will be taken to prevent unofficial employment. The population’s social security system will improve, and along with the strengthening of the material -technical base of government agencies providing social services and expansion of their types and networks, the sector of private and non – commercial organizations working in this sphere will be developed. The number of social apartments (houses) will increase and the main groups of the population will be provided with a legal right to live in these apartments. Soc ial allowances will be unified and measures to increase their amount will continue. The system of allowances given to families with children will be improved. Rules of identifying families’ need for social aid in order to establish a modern social security system and to reduce poverty will be improved and the level of the needs criteria will DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 26 constantly increase in order to bring it in line with minimum living standards. The effectiveness of social aid will be increased through the use of modern social techn ologies, and along with the existing targeted state social aid system, active social aid programmes (self -support, preferential social crediting) will be applied. Mechanisms will be created to support incomplete, low -income families and families who adopt orphan children, and appropriate measures will be taken to expand the system of care. Rehabilitation centres will be created to prevent homelessness among those who have not yet come of age and a community -based rehabilitation network in regions for child ren with limited physical abilities will be expanded. Appropriate projects will be prepared and implemented to prevent the isolation of the disabled from society and to enable them to use the infrastructure without hindrance. Also, in order to develop the skills and abilities of those persons and increase their employment opportunities, the number of social and professional rehabilitation enterprises will be increased. Disabled people will have wider opportunities to benefit from information and communicat ion technologies and obtain information through communication systems. In order to improve the housing conditions of displaced persons, enhance the social infrastructure in areas densely populated by them, increase employment, allocate microcredits, suppo rt young displaced persons, provide professional training and other measures, communities will be developed, education and health programmes will be expanded, new buildings will be constructed for education and health institutions working in decrepit build ings and provided with appropriate equipment. Great Repatriation (Great Return) programmes will be prepared together with international financial organizations, UN agencies, especially the UNHCR and other international humanitarian organizations and the pu blic will be constantly informed about it. International cooperation in the sphere of improving the system of regulating labour migration will continue and the business of dispatching citizens of the country to foreign countries as labour migrants will be regulated in compliance with international experience. At the same time, appropriate work will be carried out to create an efficient mechanism regulating the use of social allowances by refugees from other countries, prevent the illegal influx of foreign labour force into the country and strengthen the social security of our citizens working abroad. Necessary measures will be carried out to improve the system of preventing and managing emergencies in order to ensure the population’s security in crisis sit uations, automate management in this sphere and apply information technologies, carry out civil defence, fire and rescue work at a high level, protect the population and territories from natural and manmade emergencies and carry out educational work in eme rgencies. DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 27 7.4 The provision of gender equality and the development of family The gender problem in the country will remain in the centre of attention and appropriate measures will be taken to resolve it. The main direction of the state policy in this sphe re will be to take measures to prevent gender violence, create equal opportunities for women and men on the labour market, promote women at work and expand their opportunities to occupy leading positions. The strengthening of the social security and prote ction of mothers and children, the facilitation of childcare for working parents in compliance with the ratified ILO Convention “On Workers with Family Responsibilities”, increasing the number of kindergartens and the development of the family planning ser vice will be supported. A number of special documents will be adopted to implement the above tasks. In this connection, it is planned to draft “Azerbaijan’s family strategy”, a national action plan on gender equality, a children’s code and a national chil dren’s strategy. Along with that, an institute of “family psychiatrists”, help centres and shelters for women subjected to domestic violence, and a system to monitor evasion of education and early marriages will be created. 7.5 The development of youth pot ential and sports In order to ensure a healthy and active lifestyle for the Azerbaijani youth and their integration into society, a strategy for the development of the Azerbaijani youth in 2013 – 2020, a national strategy for the development of physical tra ining and sports in 2012 -2020 and a state programme covering 2013 -2016 will be prepared and implemented. The legislative base in this sphere will be constantly updated, advisory councils of young people will be set up under heads of the executive authorit ies in districts (cities) to support the systemic development of physical training and sports, and local municipal bodies will be actively involved in organizing, conducting and developing the physical training and sports business. In order to meet the de mand of young people and young families for housing, the terms of social mortgages will improve and reaction and training centres will be opened for young people with limited physical abilities. The network of information and counselling services for youn g people, especially those living in remote and rural areas will be expanded. In order to develop the working skills of the younger generation and to ensure that young people quickly learn labour and economic issues, effective forms and methods will be imp lemented. Young specialists who graduate from Azerbaijani and foreign institutions of education will be encouraged to work DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 28 in regions of Azerbaijan, and in this connection, additional social mechanisms (rise in allowances and wages, allocation of service a partments, etc.) will be created and applied. By 2020, training and appropriate sports bases will be created for republican sports federations, sports clubs (professional clubs) and children’s and youth sports schools. Work to strengthen the logistical ba se of physical training and sports institutions will continue, while staff training will improve and the social protection of specialists working in this sphere will strengthen. 8. The improvement of legislation and strengthening of institutional potentia l In order to achieve the goals stipulated by the concept, consistent measures will be carried out to improve the legislation and strengthen the appropriate institutional potential. In improving the legislation, the principle of effective state regulatio n, which ensures healthy competition in market economy conditions, will be taken as a basis. The improvement of the business environment and priorities of bringing the national legislative basis in line with the requirements of the international trade syst em will be the focus of attention, while executive discipline and the supervisory system will be strengthened in order to ensure the supremacy of the law. Legislation will be improved and effective measures will be taken against copyright violations, incl uding piracy and counterfeit products. The activities of the law -enforcement agencies will be brought in line with modern requirements, while the principles of transparency and openness will be taken as a basis in their activities. The court infrastructur e will be improved, these activities will include electronic services, and citizens’ right to justice will increase. Increasing citizens’ (especially those living in regions) legal awareness will always be the focus of attention. In terms of implementing the goals stipulated by the concept, the strengthening of institutional potential will include three main directions: the development of human resources in the state -owned sector, the expansion of the activities of the electronic government and the continu ation of institutional reforms. The strengthening of public servants’ social protection and social security system, the expansion of the fight against corruption, the strengthening of the potential of municipalities, the training of specialized staff in t he sphere of municipal administration, measures to support the activities of non -government organizations, especially in regions, will continue. DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 29 Special attention will be paid to the division of state resources between priority state services and to their efficient and economical use. As an important and integral part of democratic and transparent governance and in line with the principles of equality, neutrality and openness, citizens’ rights to access information disseminated by the state will increase a nd a number of services in the state sector will be handed over to private enterprises specializing in appropriate spheres. In line with the concept, complex measures will continue to improve methods and mechanisms of governance in government agencies and to ensure that citizens and organizations can use services in a simple, easy and free manner, while the number of state services provided to the public through electronic channels will increase. Necessary measures will continue to protect the domestic ma rket from hazardous products, to eliminate technical obstacles in trade, bring the system of standardization, which is of importance in the development of trade, in line with international requirements and to improve and develop it. Based on international experience, it is planned that every government agency and enterprise will prepare and implement a strategic plan in order to determine the priority development goals of government agencies and enterprises in spheres of activity, to bring those goals in l ine with relevant state programmes and effectively implement them. 9. The development of civil society The rapid socio -economic development of Azerbaijan and the ensuring of national interests make it necessary to deepen democracy even further, constantl y modernize relations between the state and civil society institutions and stimulate the activities of NGOs. During the period when the concept is implemented, the development of civil society and the state policy to enhance cooperation between government agencies and civil society institutions will continue. To this end, “a national action plan on the development of civil society” will be prepared and implemented. The programme will provide for the preparation and adoption of new legislative acts that sti mulate the development of civil society and the support of the state and private sector for civil society, an increase in financial aid to NGO projects and programmes, the creation of “NGO houses” and education centres and other issues. NGOs’ substantiate d proposals on the improvement of mechanisms of cooperation between the state and public organizations and on alternative solutions to problems in various spheres of public life will be the focus of attention. NGOs will be involved in the preparation of st ate programmes of special importance and will closely participate in the DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 30 work of public commissions. NGOs’ potential in informing the world public and international organizations about the fair position of our country on the Armenian -Azerbaijani Nagorno – Ka rabakh conflict will be used more effectively. In order to develop civil society, it is important to stimulate the private sector’s donor activity and achieve an institutional level in this sphere. The creation of a national donor institute will give an i mpetus to the formation of corporate culture of social responsibility and increase social investment programmes by transnational companies and large business organizations. In order to achieve this, a strategy and state programme on corporate responsibilit y will be prepared and appropriate changes will be made to the legislation. The consideration and application of civil society initiatives during the period when the concept will be implemented will deepen mutual relations between government agencies and NGOs, while the number of NGOs in regions will increase and their material – technical base will strengthen. In the long -term implementation of the concept, measures aimed at developing freedom of speech and information will continue, the national legislati ve basis regulating the activities of the information and mass media will be improved in line with international standards, and comprehensive support will be given to strengthen the economic independence of the mass media, increase their potential and ensu re their leading position in global information space. Necessary measures will be taken to determine and implement priorities in the information sector in the current period when a trans -border information – telecommunications network and information societ y are taking shape, and the study and application of modern methodological and technical innovations will speed up. Increasing the quantity and quality of national information resources in the global network, expanding their coverage area and strengthening their ability to influence international public opinion will be one of the main tasks. As an effective means of forming and expressing public opinion in the modern period, the role and importance of the mass media in society are high. For this reason, th e implementation of legal, economic, organizational and technological measures aimed at balancing the interests of persons, society and the state in their activities and ensuring information security are one of the major directions of the state’s informati on policy. Along with stimulating new manifestations in the information sector, the Azerbaijani state will also continue to effectively organize the activities of traditional information resources and support the strengthening of their logistical basis. I n compliance with the “Concept of state support for the development of the mass media in the Azerbaijan DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 31 Republic”, along with funding for media projects, they will also receive subventions, subsidies and preferential loans through the Fund of State Support for the Development of the Mass Media under the President of the Azerbaijan Republic. In order to develop the media operating in regions of Azerbaijan, editorial offices will be given targeted aid, and the creation of “Press Houses” and regional publishin g houses will be supported. In order to ensure the economic independence of the mass media, the expansion of the advertisement market will be stimulated and problems existing in this sphere will be eliminated. The state policy of strengthening the social security of mass media employees and solving their housing problems will have a sustainable nature. Increasing the professionalism of journalists is one of the main conditions for forming a democratic and responsible press. In order to achieve the tasks t hat have been set, attention to the training of journalistic staff will be increased, and joint events will be continued with international organizations and foreign media organizations in order to increase the professionalism of Azerbaijani journalists. In line with the law of the Azerbaijan Republic “On access to information” adopted in 2005, the activities of structural sections of government agencies responsible for providing information will be improved and Internet information resources will be devel oped. Measures will be stepped up to ensure the rights of the mass media to access and disseminate information, to increase mutual trust between government agencies and the media and to strengthen cooperation. 10. The protection and effective management o f cultural heritage Necessary work will be carried out to promote the rich traditions and customs of the Azerbaijani people, maintain national holidays and ceremonies, reconstruct historical symbols and legends, promote national music and dances, maintain oral folklore, restore national games and performances, develop the rich traditions of painting, decorative and miniature arts, study samples of Azerbaijani arts kept in the world’s influential museums, prove their belonging to Azerbaijan, and promote our arts in UNESCO, ISESCO, TÜRKSOY and other international organizations. Taking into account the illegal misappropriation and groundless losses of integral parts of non -tangible cultural heritage, additional measures will be carried to maintain creative ac hievements and innovations generated collectively and handed down from one generation to another and include samples of folklore and traditional knowledge on the UNESCO special list. Also, national legislation in this sphere will be maintained in a DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 32 complex manner, copyright and related rights will be protected and participation in the application and development of the international legal base will be ensured. Systemic measures will be taken to establish the logistical basis in the sphere of culture in line with modern standards, make wide use of information and communication technologies, increase efficiency in the use of funding allocated from the state budget and use funding from legal sources. Along with that, necessary work will be carried out to create an educational course on culture at institutions of the system of paid cultural services and at institutions of secondary and higher education. In order to adopt a state programme on the restoration and protection of immovable historical and cultural mon uments and improvement and development of the activities of cultural reserves in 2013 -2020, a single electronic database and register will be created in this sphere. In order to protect and effectively manage archaeological heritage, necessary work will b e carried out to support the activities of organizations studying archaeological heritage in our country, complete the study of archaeological zones and sites of ancient cities and use those territories for cultural and tourist purposes. Taking into accou nt social, economic and cultural development in the republic, a new approach will be taken to the museum business, and in order to ensure the complete protection of items kept in museums, an electronic database on museum items and a centralized information system of museums will be created in line with international standards. Work will continue to refurbish and build museums, strengthen their logistical base and create new museums. Work to collect material in order to return museum items stolen in the occ upied territories, to study exhibits of Azerbaijani origin kept at world museums and prove their belonging to Azerbaijan will continue. Along with the development of mechanisms of cultural -political support for the non – tangible cultural heritage of Azerba ijan, consistent measures will be taken to organize spheres such as the study of regional history, folklore and popular applied arts, and international promotion in this field will be a priority task. A special programme and action plan will be drafted an d implemented to familiarize the countries of the world with the Azerbaijani language, Azerbaijani culture and history. An action plan will be developed to expand the ability of special social groups in the country to use cultural facilities and services. Also, necessary work will be carried out to prepare appropriate state programmes on the printing and book business, develop the country’s library information network, provide libraries with literature and modern DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 33 information carriers and increase state sup port for private entities operating in the cultural sphere. 11. Environmental protection and ecological issues One of the main targets of the concept is to achieve sustainable socio -economic development from an ecological point of view. The necessary meas ures will be continued in the future to protect biodiversity, neutralize the negative impact of the fuel -energy complex on the environment, eliminate the pollution of the sea and its basin and protect them, restore green areas and effectively protect the e xisting resources. In the sphere of creating and restoring forests, the correlation of forests to common areas will increase, road -protecting green areas will be created to protect roadside areas and the atmosphere and to reduce traffic noises. National st andards will be prepared and applied in line with European standards adopted on poisonous substances released into the atmosphere. During the period covered by the concept, it is planned to bring the amount of energy used for the production of one unit of GDP and the amount of carbon dioxide in line with the appropriate indicator of member countries of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, and this is important in terms of implementing the development goals of the millennium. Necessar y work will be carried in order to save, neutralize and utilize raw materials, make effective use of natural reserves, protect the environment and apply technologies that produce little or no waste. Progressive methods will be used to manage waste and ente rprises will be established to recycle industrial and domestic waste. Zones where emergencies are expected due to floods will be identified and forecasts will be regularly made to be used by relevant organizations. In order to make effective use of land resources, measures will be implemented to prevent desertification, rehabilitate lands that have become unusable as a result of the activities of major industrial and mining enterprises, improve the system of using lands suitable for agriculture and streng then the protection of lands from anthropogenic contamination. Over the past 10 years, Azerbaijan’s urban population has relatively increased. The tendency towards urbanization is expected to continue in the coming years, and this puts forward new require ments for the formation of the urban infrastructure. Requirements for environmental protection will be prioritized to prevent damage to the environment during DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT “AZERBAIJAN – 2020: OUTLOOK FOR THE FUTURE” Project 34 construction work in the capital and other parts of the country (both by the state and private se ctors) and while taking measures to develop all industries. During the period covered by the concept, comprehensive reforms will be carried out in the housing sphere, the access of the country’s population to enhanced water supply services and sewer syste m will be improved, cities and villages will be provided with purifying installations and the system of monitoring in this sphere will be improved. A new heating system will be installed, the zone of heating supplies will be expanded, new heating sources w ill be built and economically ineffective boiler houses will be closed. Along with all this, practical steps will be taken to improve the legislation on environmental protection in compliance with advanced international experience and create effective mon itoring and supervision mechanisms. At the same time, measures will be implemented to support scientific research in the sphere of protecting the environment and nature and the creation of the necessary infrastructure for such activities will be planned. Special attention will be paid to public awareness measures in order to develop international cooperation on the protection of the environment in the country and foster a culture of environmental protection.