Panel Discussion on Water Resources Management in Azerbaijan Held at UFAZ

On January 30, the French-Azerbaijani University (UFAZ) hosted a high-level panel discussion titled “Strategic Approaches to Water Resources Management in Azerbaijan.” The event brought together leading academics, experts, and government officials to discuss sustainable solutions for the country’s water resources.

The event began with opening remarks by Martin Godon, Secretary General of UFAZ. Subsequently, Dr. Damien Lemarchand, Head of UFAZ’s Master’s Program in Water Resources and Management, and Ms. Nigar Arpadarai, Member of the Milli Majlis of the Republic of Azerbaijan, addressed the participants.

Following the opening session, the panel discussion, moderated by Dr. Damien Lemarchand, commenced. Key participants included Ms. Nigar Arpadarai, Member of the Milli Majlis, Dr. Rufat Azizov, Rector of the Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University (ASOIU), Prof. Jean-Marc Planeix, UFAZ Coordinator, and Mr. Rashail Ismayilov, Deputy Chairman of the Water and Amelioration Scientific Research Institute. Speakers shared their insights on the impacts of climate change, sustainable water management approaches, strategic planning, digital solutions, regional cooperation, and public awareness.

During the panel discussion and interactive QCA session, faculty members, students, and other participants engaged directly with the speakers, exchanging ideas and discussing strategic priorities for water resources management in Azerbaijan.

The discussion highlighted UFAZ’s commitment to environmental protection and water resources management initiatives. The university’s Earth Sciences and Environment Research Group, as well as its Master’s program in Water Resources and Management, focus on critical issues such as water scarcity, groundwater resources, the impacts of climate change, and sustainable development. Collaboration with the Azerbaijan State Water Resources Agency, including student scholarships and active involvement in teaching and learning activities, was emphasized as an important support for the program.

Additionally, participants discussed key messages conveyed during the January 12 meeting chaired by President Ilham Aliyev, which focused on the 2026-2035 State Program for improving water supply, wastewater, and stormwater systems in Baku and the Absheron Peninsula, as well as the main challenges identified in the approved State Program.

The event concluded with closing remarks by Dr. Damien Lemarchand, summarizing the outcomes of the discussion.