The First International Environmental Forum of the Caspian Littoral States has commenced in Makhachkala, Russian Federation, dedicated to developing crucial joint mechanisms for protecting the Caspian Sea ecosystem.

The two-day event (December 8–9) brings together nearly 300 experts in ecology, biology, and geophysics from all five littoral nations: Turkmenistan, Russia, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Iran.

The Need for a Consolidated Approach The plenary session, held in both in-person and online formats, focused on the most pressing environmental challenges facing the Caspian—primarily the critical issues of sea shallowing and the alarming situation involving the mortality of Caspian seals.

Forum participants strongly emphasized the need for all five states to adopt unified approaches and implement an immediate, comprehensive solution to safeguard the sea's unique fauna and ensure the ecosystem's overall stability.

Experts noted that developing a comprehensive monitoring program and establishing a functional mechanism for data exchange among all five littoral countries is vital. A unified observation system is essential not just for documenting the problems, but for actively managing the situation, preventing threats, and preserving species like the Caspian seal for future generations.

The forum is expected to conclude with the preparation of a package of documents and the launch of a unified program for the conservation of the Caspian ecosystem with a concrete action plan.

The active engagement of Turkmenistani experts in this pivotal discussion underscores the unwavering priority Turkmenistan places on international cooperation in ecology and the protection of the Caspian Sea's vital resources.