The declining water level in the Caspian Sea in recent years is a serious concern, Rauf Hajiyev, Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, stated this during the panel session titled “The Caspian Sea at a Crossroads: Science-Policy Dialogue on Sea Level Decline and Regional Action” held within the framework of the international event dedicated to World Environment Day (WED), hosted by Azerbaijan, APA reports.
He said that the impacts are already being felt in coastal ecosystems, economic activities and the lives of local communities: “Research on the causes of the decline in sea level is ongoing. The effects of factors such as climate change, river flows, hydrological processes and water use are being studied. There are various scientific approaches to these issues, and our knowledge continues to expand as research progresses. The purpose of today’s meeting is not to establish a unified position. The goal is to share scientific knowledge, discuss different approaches and identify opportunities for cooperation.”
The deputy minister noted that the decline in the Caspian Sea’s level has gained greater prominence on the international agenda in recent years: “The high-level ministerial dialogue held in Baku within the framework of COP29 contributed to increasing attention to this issue. As a continuation of this process, the Secretariat of the Tehran Convention prepared an Action Plan defining future directions for cooperation. Azerbaijan is also continuing its activities in this direction. Bilateral expert working groups have been established on the issue of the declining water level in the Caspian Sea. These platforms serve to exchange information and experience and promote scientific cooperation.
In the coming period, strengthening scientific research, observations and information exchange, as well as expanding cooperation among the Caspian littoral states, will be of particular importance. Azerbaijan will continue to support dialogue, cooperation and joint action on Caspian-related issues. We believe that a science-based approach and mutual trust will help find common solutions regarding the future of the Caspian. The Caspian Sea is a shared asset that unites us.”
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