The 17th Plenary Assembly of the International Ski Mountaineering Federation (ISMF) took place in Baku, marking the first time this prestigious event was hosted in Azerbaijan.

The assembly brought together around 60 delegates from 24 countries.

Speaking to the event, Florian Zengstschmid, Vice President of the Azerbaijan Winter Sports Federation, highlighted the significant progress made in recent years to develop winter sports in Azerbaijan. He pointed to the creation of essential infrastructure, the training of local athletes, and growing public interest in winter sports. Zengstschmid highlighted the international ski mountaineering series held in Azerbaijan in March and the opening of the ice rink as significant milestones. He also noted that preparations for the Ski Mountaineering World Cup, set to be held at Shahdag Tourism Center in January 2025, are well underway, with the slopes ready for the competition.

Regula Meyer, President of the International Ski Mountaineering Federation, lauded Azerbaijan's growing interest in ski sports, the launch of slopes and infrastructure that meet international standards. Meyer expressed the federation's readiness to hold major competitions in Azerbaijan in the future.

The participants discussed the upcoming goals and planned projects, and welcomed new members.