On May 22 in Neftchala, an initiative marking the International Day for Biological Diversity was held involving the release of sturgeon juveniles into the Caspian Sea.
The event was jointly organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, the Fisheries and Aquaculture Center (public legal entity), FAO, the Neftchala District Executive Authority, and several private companies.
The ceremony began with the playing of the National Anthem and a moment of silence in memory of the martyrs who lost their lives for the country. Participants were then briefed on biodiversity conservation, the ecological importance of sturgeon species, and sustainable management of aquatic bioresources.
Minister of Agriculture Majnun Mammadov stated that biodiversity protection is a global challenge that requires consistent local action. He noted that Azerbaijan is implementing a systematic state policy in this area, including modern approaches in fisheries and aquaculture. According to him, restoring aquatic bioresources in the Caspian Sea and inland waters, developing aquaculture, and strengthening monitoring mechanisms remain key priorities.
The Minister also announced that 150,000 sturgeon juveniles are planned to be released into Azerbaijan’s sector of the Caspian Sea this year, with the number expected to reach 500,000 in the coming months. Additionally, 50,000 salmon juveniles are planned for release into inland water bodies in the autumn.
Director of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Center Ceyhun Aliyev emphasized that the Caspian Sea is a unique ecosystem and highlighted the importance of protecting species such as sturgeon and salmon.
Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources Vugar Karimov and FAO Azerbaijan Office Head Bariz Mehdiyev also spoke about the importance of such ecological initiatives and continued cooperation in preserving aquatic ecosystems.
In total, 2,000 sturgeon juveniles were released into the Caspian Sea, contributing to ongoing efforts to restore biodiversity and aquatic resources in the region.
