OTOAI announces its 6th Convention in Moscow to boost India-Russia tourism ties – ET TravelWorld

The Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI) has unveiled plans for its 6th Convention, set to take place in Moscow from 10th to 13th July 2025, during a press event at Le Meridien, New Delhi, today. The announcement marks a strategic push to deepen tourism collaboration between India and Russia, with Moscow emerging as a key destination for Indian travellers.

The four-day convention will feature B2B networking sessions, a destination showcase and cultural immersion programs. Online registration for the convention will begin by next week as the OTOAI team also works to finalise the theme of the Convention.

A major milestone was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Anastasia Popova, Head of Business Tourism Development, Moscow City Tourism Committee, and Shravan Bhalla, Convention Chairman, OTOAI, solidifying mutual efforts to enhance tourism cooperation.

Announcing the 6th convention of the association, Himanshu Patil, President, OTOAI, said, “As global travel patterns evolve, our partnership with Moscow City Tourism Committee will enable Indian tourists to explore beyond the traditional destinations. Through this convention, we aim to create a framework for increased tourism exchanges benefiting operators from both nations, positioning Moscow as a premier destination in India’s outbound tourism portfolio.”

Anastasia Popova shared her enthusiasm, saying, “Hosting OTOAI’s convention in Moscow reflects the growing ties between India and Russia. We are committed to elevating Moscow’s appeal for Indian travellers, offering world-class MICE facilities, safety, and unique cultural experiences.”

The gathering was presided over by Shravan Bhalla, Convention Chairman, alongside Monia Kapoor as the Co-Chairman for the Convention. Bhalla presented a detailed framework of the upcoming convention’s structure and agenda. The B2B interactions facilitated valuable networking opportunities, laying the groundwork for an enhanced and long-term partnership between Indian outbound tour operators and their Moscow counterparts.

Talking to ETTravelWorld, Bhalla said that the theme will be around educating and equipping the members with new-age AI tools and how they can use them to leverage business opportunities.

Delegates will also enjoy a three-night post-convention tour to St. Petersburg, where they can experience the famed White Nights—a spectacular time to explore the city’s palaces, canals, and vibrant atmosphere.

With 180+ Indian delegates expected, the event aims to position Moscow as a premier outbound destination, fostering long-term tourism partnerships between the two nations.