BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 20. Water is the basis of life, the backbone of every ecosystem, economy, and society, and its availability, quality, and effective management are closely linked to the efforts we make to build a long and sustainable future, the Chairman of the State Water Resources Agency of Azerbaijan Zaur Mikayilov said at the event “Combating Climate Change: Sustainable Water Solutions and Sustainable Future in Azerbaijan” held within the framework of the COP29 event, Trend reports.
He noted that water in every sector is the foundation of sustainable development.
“Access to clean drinking water is not only a basic human right but is also important to protect public health and maintain ecological balance. Water resources are the foundation of agricultural productivity and support irrigation systems that ensure food security for millions of people. In addition, water plays an important role in energy production, sanitation systems, and economic activity. Sustainable development efforts are therefore inextricably linked to the availability, quality, and effective management of sustainable water resources.
Azerbaijan is one of the countries that have made important steps in this area and submitted voluntary reports on the Sustainable Development Goals. For about ten years, Azerbaijan has had a National Coordination Council for Sustainable Development. This long-term commitment demonstrates Azerbaijan's will to integrate sustainable water management into the National Development Strategy and serves as an example for other countries facing similar challenges.
Climate change is accelerating; rising global temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events are affecting freshwater availability, posing threats to humans and natural systems. All these emphasize the need for adaptive and sustainable strategies,” Mikayilov noted.
According to him, Azerbaijan has introduced innovative and advanced water management technologies to protect water resources against the backdrop of growing climate challenges.
“Climate change knows no borders and once again points to the need for global regional cooperation. Transboundary water management is an example that demonstrates the benefits of cooperation. However, regions such as the South Caucasus face hydro-security voids regarding cooperative management. We encourage all regional states to jointly manage transboundary water resources and take concrete steps that will strengthen water security in the South Caucasus.
Azerbaijan has built ultrafiltration water treatment plants at the Jeyranbatan reservoir, a modern treatment plant in Pirshaghi, and introduced SCADA systems. Azerbaijan's Caspian Sea desalination initiative, the first public-private partnership project, is a clear example of the country's efforts.
We must prioritize effective water management while facing the realities of climate change. Our actions today will determine the state of water resources for future generations. We invite everyone to join forces to conserve this vital resource. Our work under COP29 will create an important legacy for water security in the future,” he noted.