BAKU, Azerbaijan, June 5. The decline in the
level of the Caspian Sea is a cause for concern, Azerbaijan's
Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Rauf Hajiyev said
at an event entitled "The Caspian Sea at a turning point:
scientific and analytical discussion on sea level fall and regional
action" held as part of the international conference dedicated to
World Environment Day (WED), Trend reports.


"World Environment Day reminds us once again that protecting
nature is our shared responsibility. This event is a good
opportunity to strengthen cooperation between science, politics and
society," he explained.


According to him, the issue under discussion is of particular
importance for the region.


"The decline in the level of the Caspian Sea observed in recent
years is a matter of serious concern. Its effects are already being
felt in coastal ecosystems, economic activities and the lives of
local communities. Research into the causes of the decline is
ongoing. The impact of factors such as climate change, river flows,
hydrological processes and water use is being studied. There are
various scientific approaches to these issues, and as research
continues, our knowledge is expanding.


The purpose of today's meeting is not to formulate a unified
position. The goal is to share scientific knowledge, discuss
different approaches and identify opportunities for
cooperation.


In recent years, the decline in the level of the Caspian Sea has
begun to take a greater place on the international agenda. The
high-level ministerial dialogue held in Baku within the framework
of COP29 contributed to increasing attention to this issue. As a
follow-up, the Secretariat of the Tehran Convention has developed
an Action Plan that defines future directions of cooperation.


Azerbaijan also continues its activities in this direction.
Bilateral expert working groups have been established on the
decline in the level of the Caspian Sea. These platforms serve to
exchange information and experience, and to develop scientific
cooperation.


In the coming period, strengthening scientific research,
observations and information exchange, as well as expanding
cooperation between the Caspian littoral states, is of particular
importance.


Azerbaijan will continue to support dialogue, cooperation and
joint activities on issues related to the Caspian Sea. We believe
that a science-based approach and mutual trust will help find
common solutions for the future of the sea.


The Caspian Sea is a commonwealth that unites us. I believe that
cooperation will further strengthen for the sake of its future and
that today's discussions will yield useful results," he noted.