The International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) Council is meeting in Istanbul from 4–8 November 2025 for its final in-person session of the year.
Hosted by Türkiye’s Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the event is supported by Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, the Istanbul Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Hotel Association of Türkiye (TÜROB).
The five-day programme brings together international organisers and Türkiye’s leading business events bodies to discuss global industry trends, share insights, and set priorities for 2026.
Topics include education and accreditation, the global EDGE seminars, and sustainability partnerships with host destinations.
Opening remarks were delivered by IAPCO president Sissi Lignou, followed by an advisory board meeting involving local hosts. The schedule also features site visits to showcase Istanbul’s major venues, hotel capacity, and global air connections via Turkish Airlines and Istanbul Airport.
Lignou said: “Istanbul represents the perfect harmony between heritage and innovation. The city’s energy, connectivity, and creativity continue to position it among the most dynamic congress destinations in the world.”
Sinan Seha Türkseven, general manager of TGA, said hosting the council has offered a chance to highlight Türkiye’s meetings capabilities. He said: ““We believe that collaboration with IAPCO and its international network will further elevate the global competitiveness of Istanbul and Türkiye in the meetings industry.”
He added: “Through the combined efforts of TGA, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, IMM, ICVB, and TÜROB, this event reflects Türkiye’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation, innovation, and sustainability in the business events sector,” said Türkseven.
