FAO recognizes Azerbaijani villages under its new initiative

BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 27. The Food and
Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has formally
recognized several villages in Azerbaijan under the FAO Villages
Recognition Initiative, reaffirming the country’s strong commitment
to sustainable rural development, biodiversity conservation and the
preservation of cultural heritage, Trend reports via the organization.

The recognition follows the official launch of the Initiative by
the Director-General of FAO in Cairo in December 2025. The FAO
Villages Recognition Initiative aims to conserve natural heritage
and biodiversity, safeguard traditional food systems, strengthen
the links between rural culture and education, hospitality and
tourism, and promote innovative and digital approaches for rural
development

During the first phase of implementation, the villages of
Aghali, Lekit, Oryet, Saribash and Siyov were recognized for their
dedication to the principles of sustainable and inclusive rural
development

The recognition highlights Azerbaijan’s growing role in global
efforts to acknowledge and support outstanding rural communities.
It reflects the country’s commitment to strengthening agrifood
systems, preserving natural ecosystems, and enhancing the
resilience and livelihoods of rural populations.

The next phase of the Initiative will focus on enhancing the
online presence of the recognized villages, including updates to
the FAO MuNe (Mountain and Rural Network) platform and the
publication of concise information cards for each community. These
efforts will further promote visibility, knowledge exchange and
sustainable rural tourism opportunities.

FAO looks forward to continued collaboration with the Government
of Azerbaijan, particularly with the Ministry of Agriculture and
the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, to advance
sustainable agriculture and responsible natural resource management
across the country.

This milestone underscores the shared commitment of FAO and
Azerbaijan to strengthening rural communities, protecting
biodiversity, and promoting innovative, climate-resilient
development pathways in line with national priorities and the
Sustainable Development Goals.