Baku: Karabakh has the potential to become a major tourism destination in the future, World Bank Regional Director for the South Caucasus Rolande Pryce said, APA-Economics reports. She emphasized the significant investment opportunities available in Azerbaijan's tourism sector, although she did not specify the exact volume of investments needed.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the government of Azerbaijan has already attracted several international luxury hotel brands, marking a significant step towards enhancing the country's tourism appeal. Pryce highlighted the World Bank's report, which suggests increasing tourism's role in economic diversification. This diversification could not only attract more investments but also create new jobs, thereby contributing to economic growth and public welfare.

Pryce further noted that Karabakh holds enormous potential as a tourism destination, with the government investing substantial resources in reconstructing the region. She mentioned that tourism could play a crucial role in transforming the development model of areas affected by past conflicts. If the Azerbaijani government focuses on developing Karabakh as a tourism hub, there are considerable opportunities to achieve this goal.

She also pointed out that private investment in Azerbaijan's tourism sector faces no significant obstacles. Current investments have already led to the establishment of international-standard hotels, offering high-level service quality. Pryce remarked that there is still room to create additional opportunities to attract even more investment.

Azerbaijan's tourism potential extends beyond Baku, according to Pryce. She suggested the development of various types of tourism, such as nature, ski, hiking, health, and cultural tourism. To support this, the establishment of small hotels, family-run guesthouses, restaurants, and professional tour guides is necessary. Ensuring that tourist destinations are safe, attractive, and well-equipped with necessary services is crucial.

Pryce concluded that different regions of Azerbaijan possess unique tourism advantages, and decisions regarding priority destinations should be made in collaboration with relevant tourism authorities. Once infrastructure and services are in place, she assured that tourists will certainly visit.