To mark five years of partnership between the Academy of the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan (ASCCA) and the Korea Customs Human Resources Development Institute (CHRDI), a delegation from CHRDI visited Baku to exchange experience between the two countries’ customs systems, assess the outcomes of cooperation from 2020 to 2024, and explore new opportunities for collaboration.

The visit focused on reviewing the progress made between 2020 and 2024 under joint initiatives in customs education, training, and human resource development. It also served as a platform for both sides to exchange experiences and explore new ways to strengthen institutional ties.

During the meeting, Major General Gulu Novruzov, Head of the Academy, welcomed the delegation and provided an overview of the Academy’s work. He spoke about its founding, the structure of its educational programs, and the role international cooperation plays in customs modernization. G.Novruzov also highlighted how collaboration with institutions like CHRDI helps build stronger professional capacity within Azerbaijan’s customs system.

Representing CHRDI, Kim Kyoungo, Head of the Human Resources Development Department, noted the importance of deepening professional ties between the two organizations. He expressed confidence that the dialogue would pave the way for new projects and continued exchange of expertise.

One of the key speakers at the event, Elvin Mejidov, International Cooperation and Projects Coordinator at the Academy, presented an overview of Azerbaijan’s customs training system and highlighted the outcomes of the partnership with CHRDI since 2020. He also discussed two major international projects that reflect the broader scope of the Academy’s engagement, noting that the KOICA-funded “Enhancing ICT Capacity for Customs in Azerbaijan” project (2022–2024) focuses on developing the digital infrastructure and technological capabilities of the customs system, while the European Union Erasmus+ project titled “Excellent MA ITCLSC” aims to launch the world’s first joint international master’s program in customs, international trade, logistics, and supply chain management. E.Mejidov emphasized the value of CHRDI’s involvement in both initiatives and its role in shaping future educational and professional standards in the sector.

CHRDI representatives also gave a detailed presentation on their training and development strategies designed for Korea Customs Service personnel, as well as the institute’s international cooperation activities and project portfolio.

At the end of the visit, the guests toured the Academy’s facilities and were briefed on its current capabilities and resources.

The visit provided a valuable opportunity to assess the results of the five-year partnership and identify new avenues for expanding cooperation, particularly in areas such as customs training, human resource development, and joint international projects.