Zaur Mikayilov: Protection of water resources - task not only for government agencies, but also for each consumer

The problem of water in Azerbaijan is a key issue that determines the existence of both current and future generations, Chairman of the State Water Resources Agency of Azerbaijan (ADSEA) Zaur Mikayilov said at a panel discussion within the 2nd International Exhibition and Conference for Water Management - Baku Water Week, Report informs.

He called on people to use water resources correctly, noting that their protection is the task and responsibility of not only government agencies, but also each consumer individually. Mikayilov also said that Azerbaijan is in the process of transition from extensive agriculture, where production growth is achieved by increasing the amount of resources used, to intensive agriculture. In intensive agriculture, production growth is achieved by improving the quality and efficiency of the resources used.

"The transition to intensive agriculture requires the efficient use of every drop of water. The population is growing, the demand for food is increasing, and water resources are declining," he noted.

He added that 70% of Azerbaijan's water resources are formed outside the country, so transboundary cooperation and international partnership are of particular importance.

"As an example of cooperation with neighboring countries, one can cite the reservoirs on the Araz River, which have existed for more than 50 years. But this is not only a regional but also a global issue. Therefore, the participation of science, international cooperation and private partners is important, and such conferences contribute to the formation of new ideas and approaches," he said.