Bashir Hajiyev, the Special Representative of the President of
the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Kalbajar district, reviewed the
progress on the Soyudlu (Zod) Gold Deposit Project during the
meeting at AzerGold Closed Joint-Stock Company (CJSC).
Zakir Ibrahimov, Chairman of the Executive Board of AzerGold
CJSC, provided a comprehensive overview of the activities being
carried out by the state Company at the Zod deposit – the largest
gold deposit in the Caucasus region. He noted that extensive
geological explorations commenced in August 2025, including the
analysis of historical and geological data. In addition, modern
mine planning and topographic mapping were completed along with the
drilling operations up to 9,000 metres that were carried out across
the deposit. Z. Ibrahimov highlighted that, based on the results of
the exploration programme, the recoverable remaining reserves of
the Zod Gold Deposit have been estimated at 1.03 million ounces in
accordance with the requirements of international JORC (Joint Ore
Reserves Committee) Code.
It was emphasized that intensive exploration activities will
continue in the adjacent and surrounding areas, considering
significant resource growth potential of the deposit.
Zakir Ibrahimov added that the development of the Zod Gold
Deposit will further strengthen the role of the country’s mining
industry in economy. The future integrated development of the
deposit, based on advanced technologies and international
environmental standards, is expected to contribute to the long-term
socio-economic development of the region and support the growth of
Azerbaijan’s non-oil and gas sectors. The Project will provide
additional opportunities for employment in the Kalbajar region,
enhance workforce development and professional training, stimulate
the growth of service and logistics sectors, as well as encourage
the expansion of local entrepreneurship.
Bashir Hajiyev noted that the effective utilization of the
region’s rich natural resources is of great importance and
complements the large-scale restoration and reconstruction
processes implemented in Kalbajar. The development of the Zod Gold
Deposit represents a strategic project that will make a significant
contribution to the region’s socio-economic growth and
employment.
The Project plays an important role in the economic
reintegration of Azerbaijan’s liberated territories, facilitating
their integration into the national economy and supporting
sustainable resettlement efforts. The successful implementation of
the Project will contribute to the realization of the Kalbajar
districts’s economic potential and the creation of additional
opportunities to enhance the social welfare of local
communities.
