Research Seminar on Global Water Policy Held at UFAZ

On March 6th, a research seminar titled "Water Diplomacy" was held at the French Azerbaijani University (UFAZ) featuring Dr. Guy Bonvin, the Deputy Head of Mission and Deputy Head of Regional Cooperation at the Swiss Embassy in Azerbaijan.

Dr. Bonvin, who has been serving in Azerbaijan since July 1, 2024, currently focuses on economic cooperation, bilateral relations, and specifically COP29 initiatives. During the seminar, he spoke extensively on the strategic role of water, emphasizing that it is not merely a natural resource but a vital guarantor of peace and stability in international relations.

In his presentation, the speaker shared his extensive experience gained during his tenure as the Swiss Special Envoy for Water in Central Asia from Spring 2019 to Summer 2022. He highlighted his central role in the "Blue Peace Central Asia" initiative, a Swiss water diplomacy mandate aimed at addressing the complex challenges of the water-energy food-environment nexus within a transboundary context.

Dr. Bonvin also provided insights into his work with Swiss-Ukraine Cooperation starting in October 2022. He shared examples of humanitarian and development projects implemented under challenging conditions in Ukraine, focusing on sustainable urban development, mobility, health, and culture.

The seminar concluded with interactive discussions on how water diplomacy should address modern challenges, including climate change and resource management.