Azeri President Raises Alarm Over Caspian Sea Shrinkage with Putin

Azeri President Ilham Aliyev highlighted the shrinking of the Caspian Sea in a discussion with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The two nations agreed to analyze the situation, which poses ecological threats and impacts the economy. Climate change and water diversion are cited as major factors.

Azeri President Ilham Aliyev on Monday raised urgent concerns with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the 'catastrophic' shrinkage of the Caspian Sea. The two leaders agreed to jointly analyze the situation, emphasizing the need for immediate attention.

The Caspian Sea, the world's largest inland body of water, has experienced fluctuating water levels over the last century, with a significant decline since the mid-1990s, according to scientific studies. During a media statement in Baku, Aliyev pointed out rocks that were submerged just two years ago, now visible a meter above the water surface.

Although Putin did not release a public statement, Aliyev acknowledged the dialogue as a step towards addressing what he termed an ecological disaster. Azeri ecology ministry's Nazim Mahmudov attributed the decline to climate change and the diversion of Volga waters for irrigation. The situation also impacts the environment and economic sectors like marine oil and gas operations, underscoring the need for global efforts to cut greenhouse gas emissions. Baku is set to host the United Nations COP climate talks in November.

(With inputs from agencies.)