On August 12, a scientific and practical conference entitled "Protection of the Caspian Sea Ecosystem: Regional Cooperation and Sustainable Development" opened in Turkmenistan, marking Caspian Sea Day. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov sent a congratulatory message to the participants, emphasizing the international, environmental, and economic significance of the Caspian Sea, Turkmenportal.com reported.
Climate change, water resource protection, and pollution prevention require the combined efforts of all Caspian states, according to the Turkmen president. Turkmenistan prioritizes the conservation of biodiversity, rare species of flora and fauna, and the sustainable use of marine resources. Ashgabat is also developing cooperation with international organizations and countries in the region and promoting the Caspian Environmental Initiative.
The Caspian Sea is of strategic importance to all five littoral states—Azerbaijan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan. It is a vital source of biological and energy resources, a transportation hub, and a unique ecosystem whose health directly impacts the region's economy and security.
The environmental agenda is particularly pressing given the challenges of rising sea levels, climate change, pollution, and declining biodiversity. These problems cannot be effectively addressed within a single country: pollution, water resource conditions, and ecosystem changes are transboundary.
For Turkmenistan, the conference provides a platform for promoting closer coordination among Caspian countries. Strengthening joint monitoring, sharing environmental data, preventing pollution, and protecting rare species can form the basis of a long-term strategy for preserving the Caspian Sea.
Ultimately, the sea's environmental sustainability is essential for the sustainable development of its ports, fisheries, energy, tourism, and other industries in all Caspian states.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
August 12, 2026