The International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) Council held its final in-person meeting of 2025 in Istanbul from November 4 to 8, uniting global industry leaders with Turkish institutions to co-create strategies for the meetings sector.
Hosted by the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the high-profile gathering showcased Istanbul’s position as a leading international congress destination. Support was provided by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, the Istanbul Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Hotel Association of Türkiye.
The five-day programme focused on strategic discussions, knowledge sharing, and showcasing Istanbul’s infrastructure, including its convention centres, accommodation capacity, and the global connectivity offered by Turkish Airlines and Istanbul Airport.
The Istanbul Council Meeting served as a key platform for IAPCO to review its 2025 achievements and map out strategic priorities for 2026. Key areas include the next phase of Education and Accreditation initiatives, global Edge Seminars, and sustainability partnerships.
Sinan Seha Türkseven, general manager of TGA, noted the importance of hosting the Council.
“We believe that collaboration with IAPCO and its international network will further elevate the global competitiveness of Istanbul and Türkiye in the meetings industry,” Türkseven said, adding that the event reflects Türkiye’s commitment to international cooperation and sustainability.
