Minister of Agriculture Majnun Mammadov spoke at an event held in Naftalan on the occasion of the International Day for Biological Diversity.
Modern.az reports that the minister stated that the protection of biodiversity is of global importance.
According to him, this year's motto "Local action for global impact" shows that initiatives implemented at the local level lead to global results:
"The reduction of biodiversity, degradation of ecosystems, and inefficient use of natural resources are among the main challenges of modern times. Biodiversity is of strategic importance in terms of human well-being, food security, climate stability, and sustainable socio-economic development."
The minister noted that fish and other aquatic bioresources play an important role in food supply, employment, and maintaining ecological balance.
Majnun Mammadov emphasized that the protection of biological diversity in seas, rivers, and lakes is directly related to the sustainable management of fish stocks:
"Protection of aquatic bioresources, restoration of fish stocks, prevention of illegal fishing, and development of ecologically sustainable aquaculture are among the priority areas. As a result of the attention shown to this area by President Ilham Aliyev, the state policy on fisheries and aquaculture is being purposefully implemented."
He stated that within the framework of public-private partnership, starting from today, 150,000 sturgeon juveniles are planned to be released into the Azerbaijani part of the Caspian Sea within a month:
"In the coming months, this number is expected to reach 500,000. In addition, 50,000 salmon juveniles are planned to be raised and released into inland water bodies in the autumn months."
At the end of his speech, the minister emphasized that the protection of biodiversity is an important responsibility towards future generations and noted the importance of joint action.
