Arpadarai calls for closer ties between culture and climate action

There are significant opportunities to link cultural diplomacy with environmental diplomacy, Nigar Arpadarai, COP29 High-Level Champion and member of Azerbaijan's parliament, said.

According to Report, she made the remarks at the event "Protecting Cultural Heritage and Biodiversity in Turkic Civilization: From Shared Traditions to Joint Action," held as part of Baku Climate Action Week 2026 (BCAW 2026).

Arpadarai said joint regional initiatives, research programs and practical projects should be developed in this area.

"For example, we could explore the possibility of creating a network of protected natural and cultural heritage sites across the Turkic world and strengthen cooperation on the protection of species and ecosystems. We should also promote sustainable tourism that does not harm our natural and cultural heritage, but instead helps preserve it," she said.

Arpadarai described shared heritage as a responsibility carried collectively.

"I would like to draw your attention to one example. Over the past 30 years, the level of the Caspian Sea has fallen by about two meters. There is a broad consensus in the scientific community that as warming accelerates, the likelihood of a further decline in the water level is quite high," she said.

Arpadarai noted that she represents Baku's Sabail district in parliament, where Sabail Castle is located.

"It is a medieval fortress that archaeologists have studied underwater for about 90 years. Previously, the fortress was almost invisible. Now, as a result of the falling level of the Caspian Sea, it has become visible," she said.

The lawmaker added that as the sea recedes, such historical monuments are literally emerging from beneath the water, becoming exposed and facing different risks.

"The same situation is being observed along Azerbaijan's coastline. I think similar developments may also be occurring along the shores of other Turkic states represented at this table. This example shows the connection between culture and the environmental challenges we face," Arpadarai said.