Iran signals readiness for joint biosphere reserve with Armenia
Iran expressed readiness to establish a shared biosphere reserve with Armenia, aiming to enhance conservation efforts and promote sustainable development.
The proposal was discussed during a meeting between Hamid Zohrabi, Iran’s Deputy Head of Natural Environment and Biodiversity at the Department of Environment (DoE), and Aram Meymaryan, Armenia’s Deputy Minister of Environment, on the sidelines of the 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves (WCBR) in Hangzhou, IRNA reported.
Zohrabi highlighted the potential for collaboration, stating that Iran is "prepared to develop a joint biosphere reserve with Armenia, focusing on the revival of a shared species and the protection of natural habitats."
He emphasized the importance of leveraging international platforms to facilitate scientific exchanges and technical cooperation between nations. The discussions align with broader regional efforts to strengthen environmental partnerships and address transboundary ecological challenges.
The proposed biosphere reserve would encompass areas rich in biodiversity, potentially including regions such as the Arasbaran biosphere reserve in Iran, which borders Armenia.
The project a growing trend of cross-border environmental cooperation in the South Caucasus, underscoring the shared commitment to preserving natural heritage and fostering sustainable development.
In addition to the biosphere reserve discussions, Zohrabi confirmed that Iran is set to sign a memorandum of understanding with the Chinese Academy of Sciences in the coming days.
The Iranian delegation, led by Shina Ansari, Vice President and head of the DoE, is participating in the congress, which runs from September 22 to 26, to engage with global stakeholders on biodiversity conservation and sustainable development strategies.