The further development of environmental cooperation in the Central Asia–Azerbaijan format was discussed at a meeting between Gismat Gozalov, Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan, and Mergen Kepbanov, Director of the Project Office of the Regional Environmental Centre for Central Asia (RECCA) in Turkmenistan, according to the RECCA Project Office in Turkmenistan.
The sides discussed opportunities to expand cooperation on climate change, conservation of the Caspian Sea’s biodiversity, water resources, combating land degradation, and renewable energy development.
Environmental education and ways to engage young people in the environmental agenda were also discussed.
The interlocutors noted that the shared environmental challenges facing the Caspian region, alongside with the experience already gained through cooperation, provide favorable conditions for enhancing systematic cooperation among Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan and the Central Asian countries in the areas of environment, climate and sustainable development.
Particular attention was given to reducing methane emissions. Mergen Kepbanov said that an international conference on methane emissions reduction is planned to take place in Ashgabat on 29–30 October 2026, with the support of the RECCA Project Office in Turkmenistan.
The upcoming event is expected to provide a platform for exchanging experience and discussing modern approaches and practical solutions for reducing methane emissions and implementing climate initiatives.
Regarding bilateral cooperation, the sides expressed interest in further developing contacts among government institutions, diplomatic missions, research institutions and expert organizations in Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan.
The organization of joint conferences, round tables and expert meetings in Ashgabat and Baku was identified as one of the promising formats for such cooperation.
Following the meeting, the sides agreed to maintain a working dialogue aimed at strengthening partnership ties. ///nCa, 23 September 2026