Armenian-Turkish Water Commission Holds Historic First Meeting in Yerevan
Yerevan, May 21 – A joint session of the Armenian-Turkish commission for the joint use of the Akhuryan and Aras rivers was held yesterday in Yerevan, marking a significant step in cross-border water resource management. This was the first time such a meeting took place in the Armenian capital, according to the Water Committee.
The meeting brought together representatives from both countries to discuss critical aspects of shared water resources. The discussions primarily focused on the operation of the Sardarapat regulator and the Akhuryan reservoir, both vital for the effective management of the transboundary rivers.
Key Discussions and Agreements
The session specifically addressed the operational mechanisms and maintenance of these crucial water infrastructure elements. According to a statement released by the department, the meeting of the Armenian-Turkish commissions for the permanent operation of transboundary water resources management for the “Operation of the Sardarapat Regulator” and “Operation of the Akhuryan Reservoir” took place initially at the Armenian-Turkish border checkpoint and subsequently at the administrative building of “Jrarr” CJSC of the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure.
Tigran Vardanyan, Director of “Jrarr” CJSC, stated that the documents signed during the meeting were drafted under mutually beneficial conditions for both parties. He emphasized that several important agreements were reached during the discussions, underscoring a collaborative approach to shared water management challenges.
Significance of the Meeting
This inaugural meeting in Yerevan signifies a positive development in the bilateral relations between Armenia and Turkey, particularly in the realm of environmental cooperation and resource management. The joint commission aims to ensure the sustainable and equitable use of the waters of the Akhuryan and Aras rivers, which form a natural boundary between the two nations.
The successful conclusion of this session and the agreements reached are expected to lay the groundwork for future cooperation and foster a more stable and cooperative environment for managing shared natural resources. The focus on mutually beneficial conditions highlights a commitment from both sides to address common interests and challenges effectively.
Further details regarding the specific agreements and future plans of the commission are anticipated to be released by the respective water authorities in due course. The establishment of this commission and its initial successful meeting are seen as a constructive step towards regional stability and cooperation.
Source: arka.am
