Ottawa Tourism, The Hague Convention Bureau, and Rogers Centre Ottawa celebrated the continued success of the H2O partnership during IMEX Frankfurt 2026 this week.
During the annual H2O breakfast event, nearly 30 international association buyers gathered in Frankfurt for networking and industry discussions. In addition, the event created opportunities for planners to connect directly with convention and tourism leaders from both destinations.
The breakfast has become an important part of IMEX Frankfurt. Moreover, the event highlights the growing relationship between Ottawa and The Hague within the global meetings industry.
H2O Partnership Continues Growing
Ottawa and The Hague first launched the H2O partnership in 2019.
The collaboration brought together two internationally focused capital cities with similar goals in tourism, conventions, and association events. Since then, both organizations have expanded the partnership through:
- Shared research
- Joint sales activity
- Client introductions
- International event promotions
As a result, the H2O partnership continues gaining attention throughout the meetings industry.
Both destinations also continue supporting congresses connected to government, research, technology, and international business sectors.
International Buyers Attend Annual Breakfast
This year’s breakfast provided association planners with direct access to destination experts and convention leaders.
Throughout the event, buyers discussed future congresses, venue planning, and long-term collaboration opportunities. Meanwhile, tourism representatives shared insights about international event trends and convention growth.
Stephanie Seguin, Vice President of Business and Major Events at Ottawa Tourism, said the breakfast reflects the core purpose behind the partnership.
“The annual H2O breakfast at IMEX Frankfurt is a perfect example of what this partnership is all about,” Seguin said. According to Seguin, buyers increasingly value destinations that work together rather than compete independently.
Convention Leaders Highlight Collaboration Benefits
Bas Schot, head of The Hague Convention Bureau, said the H2O partnership continues delivering practical value for event organizers.
He explained that Ottawa and The Hague focus heavily on shared industry knowledge, stronger planning support, and better client connections. In addition, both cities continue building long-term relationships across international markets.
At the same time, Rogers Centre Ottawa CEO Lesley Pincombe said the partnership helps convention planners navigate global event planning more efficiently.
“From a venue perspective, the H2O partnership creates real value for planners,” Pincombe said.
She added that cooperation between convention centres improves communication while strengthening support for international association clients.
Face-to-Face Meetings Remain Important
Large trade shows like IMEX Frankfurt 2026 continue playing a major role in the meetings industry.
Because face-to-face networking remains valuable, many association buyers still prioritize in-person conversations during global industry events. As a result, smaller networking gatherings like the H2O breakfast continue attracting strong attendance.
Emma Jane Taylor, director of the International Data Links Society, attended the breakfast and praised the partnership’s collaborative approach.
“The H2O partnership is a great example of added value in action,” Taylor said.
She also explained that the relationship between Ottawa and The Hague creates a more connected planning experience for international associations.
Meetings Industry Focuses on Collaboration
Convention organizations worldwide continue searching for stronger ways to support international clients.
Many destinations now focus more heavily on collaboration, shared expertise, and long-term partnerships. Meanwhile, Ottawa Tourism, The Hague Convention Bureau, and Rogers Centre Ottawa say they will continue identifying congress opportunities that align with both cities’ strengths.
As IMEX Frankfurt 2026 continues this week, the H2O partnership remains a strong example of international cooperation inside the global meetings industry.
📍 Event Information
📍 IMEX Frankfurt 2026
Frankfurt, Germany
🌐 Ottawa Tourism:
Ottawa Tourism
🌐 The Hague Convention Bureau:
The Hague Convention Bureau
🌐 Rogers Centre Ottawa:
Rogers Centre Ottawa
🤝 Partnership:
H2O International Convention Collaboration
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