The Global Esports Federation (GEF) has signed a 10-year strategic framework agreement with the Azerbaijan Esports Federation (AEF).
The agreement will see the GEF and the AEF work together towards growing the esports industry and infrastructure in the country. The signing ceremony was held in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan.
The Azerbaijan Esports Federation is a member of esports representative body Global Esports Federation, though it is also a member of rival body the International Esports Federation (IESF).
According to the two parties, the partnership will include ‘tangible initiatives’ for athletes as well as youth and community initiatives. The deal will also include the organisation of local, regional and global esports events in the country.
The GEF and AEF did not announce any specific details, upcoming events or activations under the agreement, but it can be expected that Azerbaijan will host at least some events together with GEF in the future.
Adil Mahmudov, President of the Azerbaijan Esports Federation, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the significance of this collaboration for the local esports community.
“This partnership is a testament to our commitment to nurturing our youth and emerging esports talent, providing them with exceptional opportunities. We look forward to welcoming the world to Azerbaijan,” Mahmudov said in a release.
Paul J. Foster, CEO of the Global Esports Federation, noted the partnership is a perfect fit with GEF’s vision of accelerating the growth and development of esports throughout the world.
So far in 2023, the GEF has worked closely with the International Olympic Committee, as well as several regional committees, on esports events in Europe and Asia.
The GEF has also created several Development Federations to facilitate the growth of esports in several regions.
