Baku: President Ilham Aliyev has signed an Order concerning the measures related to the designation of Shusha as the "Tourism Capital of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) for 2026," APA reports. This announcement follows the decision made at the 5th ECO Ministerial Meeting on Tourism, held on October 5, 2023, in Ardabil, Islamic Republic of Iran.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Shusha, known as the cultural capital of Azerbaijan, has been recognized as the ECO Tourism Capital, highlighting its historical, cultural, and socio-political importance. This recognition is anticipated to enhance tourism cooperation among ECO member states significantly.

The presidential Order mandates the Cabinet of Ministers to develop and execute an action plan for the formal declaration and promotion of Shusha as the ECO Tourism Capital for 2026. The Order also encompasses addressing additional matters that arise from this designation.