The Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, Otar Shamugia, met with the Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan Republic, Mukhtar Babaev.

At the meeting, the parties discussed the issues of deepening cooperation between the two countries in the environmental direction.

Otar Shamugia spoke about the significance of long-term neighborly and partnership relations between the countries and informed the members of the delegation about the environmental reforms implemented in Georgia.

"Preservation of our unique biodiversity is one of the priority fields of our state. As you are no doubt aware, an example of our successful cooperation is the project of promoting the population growth of gazelles introduced from Azerbaijan in the Vashlovani Protected Area. I believe that with joint efforts, we will implement a number of crucial measures for our countries and the region", Otar Shamugia said.

Mukhtar Babaev thanked the minister for the reliable partnership and expressed his desire to share experience in the direction of water resources, sustainable forest management, and biodiversity protection.

"Georgia has made significant progress in environmental terms. The conversation concerns the issues of forestry reform, water management, and air quality improvement. As you are no doubt aware, climate change is a global challenge. I believe that by sharing experiences, we will be able to have mutually beneficial and effective cooperation", said Mukhtar Babaev.

The meeting was attended by members of the delegation of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources of Azerbaijan Republic, Deputy Ministers of the Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia - Nino Thandilashvili, Yuri Nozadze, Kakha Kakabadze, and representatives of relevant agencies.

Within the framework of the meeting, a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed, which envisages the management of protected areas with the best international experience, protection, and conservation of natural heritage.