President Ilham Aliyev has addressed the participants of World Environment Day (WED), which is being held in Baku in partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the President's message emphasized Azerbaijan's active role in global environmental awareness and its commitment to collective efforts in protecting the planet.
In his address, President Ilham Aliyev stated: "Azerbaijan hosting this global event for the first time in the region is a significant milestone. It reflects the high appreciation for Azerbaijan's active role in raising international awareness about environmental protection and its contribution to collective efforts to safeguard our planet."
The President highlighted that environmental protection is a shared responsibility in the 21st century, noting the urgent challenges posed by climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion. He underscored that "clean environment and green growth" are among the five national priorities for Azerbaijan's socio-economic development until 2030.
Addressing the environmental damage caused during the occupation of Azerbaijani territories, the President noted: "Unfortunately, our territories, which were under occupation for nearly 30 years, were subjected to ecocide and urbicide, leading to the disruption of the ecological balance. Furthermore, the numerous mines buried in the occupied territories continue to cause serious environmental damage today."
He further detailed that the reconstruction of Garabagh and East Zangazur is being carried out in line with "smart city" and "smart village" concepts, with a strong focus on renewable energy potential, including solar, wind, and hydropower. The President also referenced Azerbaijan's successful chairmanship of COP29, which served as a crucial platform for climate diplomacy and global solidarity.
The message was read by the President's representative for climate issues, Mukhtar Babayev.
World Environment Day, established by the United Nations, is the principal vehicle for encouraging worldwide awareness and action for the protection of our environment. By hosting this event, Azerbaijan reaffirms its dedication to international climate goals and sustainable development practices, building upon the legacy of its recent COP29 presidency.
