Baku, Azerbaijan
Houston’s Energy and Culture Partner
Building connections in commerce, education, and culture since 1976
Houston’s Energy and Culture Partner
Baku, Azerbaijan (1976)
Baku and Houston became sister cities in 1976, linking two major centers of energy production. The relationship was founded to foster collaboration in the oil and gas industry, cultural exchange, and educational opportunities.
Key Areas of Collaboration:
- Energy & Industry: Knowledge-sharing and trade collaborations in oil and energy sectors.
- Cultural Exchange: Civic delegations, cultural festivals, and exhibitions highlight Azerbaijani art, music, and traditions.
- Education: Student and academic exchanges promote global understanding and professional development.
- Community Engagement: Joint programs strengthen people-to-people diplomacy and foster cross-cultural relationships.
Houston’s Energy and Culture Partner
Irada Akhoundova
Mrs. Irada Akhoundova has been appointed to become a President of the Houston Baku Sister Cities Association (HBSCA) in the spring of 2006. Prior to that, she held the position of Sr. Vice President since early 2005. Under the umbrella of Sister Cities International, HBSCA is an affiliate of the Sister Cities of Houston Program, which is managed by the Houston Mayor’s International Protocol Alliance office. HBSCA is a non-profit, citizen diplomacy network that aspires to connect Houston and Baku through creating and strengthening partnership in business, culture and education.
Mrs. Akhoundova has been providing guidance and leadership to HBSCA’s board of directors in the planning and execution of the organization’s activities. She manages HBSCA’s fundraising programs and maintains the organization’s working relationships with Azerbaijani and Houston’s city government officials, with representatives of Houston-based business corporations and other non-profit organizations as well as with the media.
Mrs. Akhoundova’s education and professional experience are primarily in the field of education, languages, cross cultural orientation and project/event management. She is fluent in English, Spanish, Russian and Azerbaijani languages and has experience living and working in various countries including Azerbaijan, Spain, Saudi Arabia and the United States.
Mrs. Akhoundova continues to provide cross cultural orientation and settling-in support on an informal, volunteer basis to members of the Azerbaijani community in Houston.
Mrs. Akhoundova is married with one daughter.
HOUSTON BAKU SISTER CITY
Association
Since 1976, the Houston-Baku Sister City Association (HBSCA) is a member of Sister Cities of Houston and one of Houston’s 19 Sister Cities.
Notable Achievements / Stories:
- Hosting Baku delegations for energy sector discussions and civic programs.
- Azerbaijani cultural festivals in Houston, showcasing traditional music, dance, and cuisine.
- Student and teacher exchange initiatives enhancing academic collaboration.
Impact & Community Engagement:
Baku provides Houston residents with opportunities to explore Eurasian culture, collaborate in energy and commerce, and participate in citizen diplomacy programs that foster lasting international connections.
Our Mission
The mission of the Houston Baku Sister City Association (HBSCA) is to promote mutual understanding, appreciation, and cooperation between the citizens of Houston, Texas and Baku, Azerbaijan.
Our Vision
The Houston-Baku Sister City Association (HBSCA) is a nonprofit citizen diplomacy network that aspires to connect Houston and Baku through creating and strengthening partnerships in business, culture and education. We strive to be valued for our people, partnership and performance.
