The leaders agreed that the 3+3 format should be further institutionalized, with regular meetings, joint projects, and the establishment of a secretariat to coordinate activities. They also discussed the possibility of expanding the scope of cooperation under this format to include areas such as environmental protection, disaster management, cultural heritage preservation, and counterterrorism efforts.
Cultural and Tourism Cooperation
Recognizing the importance of soft power and people-to-people contacts, Presidents Aliyev and Pezeshkian devoted a significant portion of their meeting to discussing cooperation in the fields of culture and tourism.
Both countries boast rich cultural heritages that are deeply intertwined, and there is immense potential for leveraging this shared legacy to strengthen ties. The leaders discussed plans for organizing joint cultural festivals, academic exchanges, and exhibitions that celebrate the literary, artistic, and historical achievements of both nations.
President Aliyev proposed the establishment of a joint cultural center that would serve as a hub for promoting cultural diplomacy. President Pezeshkian welcomed the idea and suggested that similar centers be established in multiple cities across both countries.
Tourism was another area identified as ripe for expansion. Both leaders agreed on the need to simplify visa procedures, increase the number of direct flights, and promote each other’s tourism destinations more aggressively. President Pezeshkian noted that Iran’s historic cities, religious shrines, and natural landscapes hold significant appeal for Azerbaijani tourists, while President Aliyev highlighted Azerbaijan’s modern infrastructure, seaside resorts, and cultural festivals as attractions for Iranian visitors.
The two Presidents also discussed the possibility of developing joint tourism packages that would offer travelers a combined experience of both countries’ offerings, thereby creating a unique and attractive proposition for regional and international tourists alike.
