Baku hosts BSTDB Business Forum 2026
Baku, July 2, AZERTAC
The BSTDB Business Forum 2026 opened in Baku on July 2 on the sidelines of the 28th Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB), held under Azerbaijan's chairmanship.
The forum was co-organized by BSTDB and the Export and Investment Promotion Agency of Azerbaijan (AZPROMO).
Held under the theme "Connecting Markets, Diversifying Economies: Azerbaijan as a Regional Hub," the forum focused on the country's economic development priorities, strengthening regional cooperation, projects implemented by the BSTDB in Azerbaijan, as well as current trends and challenges in financing.
Addressing the opening ceremony, Sahil Babayev, Azerbaijan's Minister of Finance and Governor for Azerbaijan at the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank, highlighted the country's strategic importance as a key economic and transport hub linking Europe and Asia.
Emphasizing that cooperation with BSTDB is of particular importance to Azerbaijan, Sahil Babayev expressed his commitment to further expanding the partnership, especially in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises.
Serhat Köksal, President of the Black Sea Trade and Development Bank (BSTDB), underlined that Azerbaijan is pursuing a consistent and purposeful policy aimed at integrating markets, diversifying the economy, and strengthening stability through cooperation.
Emphasizing the importance of the business forum in supporting Azerbaijan's future development, Serhat Köksal noted that the event provides a valuable platform for establishing new partnerships, exploring investment opportunities, and expanding business ties.
A video highlighting the development of cooperation between the BSTDB and Azerbaijan was then screened.
The forum continues with panel discussions and bilateral (B2B) meetings between entrepreneurs and representatives of financial institutions.