The Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has responded to the statement by US Ambassador Mark Libby in Baku regarding joint efforts to manage cross-border water resources. According to the MFA, there is no official cooperation between Armenia and Azerbaijan in this area, and past interactions have been limited to the level of non-governmental organizations.
Speaking at the 29th UN Climate Change Conference (COP29), Mark Libby stated that the United States is supporting joint efforts by Armenian and Azerbaijani hydrologists and engineers to create an integrated management framework for the region’s cross-border water resources.
The Armenian MFA clarified that no official cooperation exists between the two countries in this domain and that interactions have so far been limited to NGO-level communications. The ministry emphasized that this is a sensitive topic requiring clear understanding.
The US Ambassador’s statement hints at the potential for regional collaboration, especially in the context of climate change. However, the Armenian MFA’s response underscores the ongoing political tensions and obstacles to bilateral cooperation.
Water resource management is a critical issue between Armenia and Azerbaijan, involving the ecological preservation of cross-border rivers, equitable water distribution, and meeting the essential needs of local populations.
The Armenian MFA’s statement highlights the political and organizational barriers that remain in water resource cooperation. However, the US Ambassador’s remarks could be a step toward promoting regional dialogue, facilitated by international support.
