Astana: The first meeting of a joint working group dedicated to examining the declining water level of the Caspian Sea is set to occur during the Regional Environmental Summit in Astana, as reported by the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Azerbaijan to APA.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, this development was highlighted in a meeting between Kazakhstan's Ambassador to Azerbaijan, Alim Bayel, and Mukhtar Babayev, the Representative of the President of Azerbaijan on Climate Issues. During their discussions, Azerbaijan conveyed its support for the initiative proposed by Kazakhstan's President to form an international water organization.

Additionally, the discussions covered the environmental agenda, the protection of the Caspian Sea ecosystem, preparations for upcoming joint events, and the mutual backing of international initiatives targeting environmental protection.

Ambassador Bayel extended an invitation to the Azerbaijani side for active participation in the Regional Environmental Summit scheduled for April 22-24, 2026, in Astana. The parties expressed optimism that the upcoming meeting would mark a significant step toward establishing a unified regional environmental security system for the Caspian Sea basin.

Ambassador Bayel elaborated on President Tokayev's initiative to form a comprehensive water organization within the UN framework. In response, M. Babayev assured Azerbaijan's full support for this initiative, emphasizing its importance amid global climate challenges. He highlighted that water-related issues today impact not only the environment but also security and economics, making the establishment of such an organization a timely move.

M. Babayev underscored the importance of collaborative efforts between Astana and Baku in addressing environmental and climate challenges, noting their contribution to the sustainable development of the Caspian region. Both representatives praised the robust Kazakhstan-Azerbaijan relationship and reiterated their commitment to strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation in ecological matters.