Armenia’s Deputy FM highlights science-based solutions for freshwater biodiversity conservation

Freshwater ecosystems are vital for biodiversity conservation, ensuring human well-being, and strengthening the resilience of societies, Robert Abisoghomonyan, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Armenia, said during a discussion titled “Strengthening Freshwater Biodiversity through Science-Based Solutions” held at Armenia’s pavilion on the sidelines of COP17.

He said that freshwater ecosystems are among the most threatened ecosystems in the world, facing growing pressures from climate change, pollution, and the inefficient use of water resources.

According to him, addressing these challenges requires stronger political commitment, coordinated international action, and reliable scientific data to guide decision-making and ensure the effectiveness of nature conservation and restoration measures.

“Our shared goal at COP17 is to accelerate the implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and turn international commitments into practical measures,” Abisoghomonyan said.

He recalled the outcome document of the “Leaders for Nature” Summit, the Yerevan Declaration, presented days ago by Armenia’s COP17 Presidency, which, among other issues, reaffirms the importance of strengthening joint action for biodiversity conservation.

According to Abisoghomonyan, the priority now is to turn these political commitments into measurable results, and advanced monitoring technologies play an important role in this context.

“For Armenia, these issues have practical significance. Lake Sevan, one of the world’s largest high-altitude freshwater lakes, is a unique natural ecosystem, an invaluable part of our national heritage, and a vital resource for Armenia’s sustainable development,” he said, adding that Armenia’s ongoing efforts to protect and restore Lake Sevan demonstrate the complexity of managing freshwater ecosystems and the importance of combining scientific research, effective monitoring, and evidence-based policymaking.

He emphasized the importance of international scientific cooperation and the exchange of knowledge and experience in addressing the common challenges faced by countries in different regions.

The event discussed science-based approaches to the conservation and sustainable management of freshwater ecosystems. Innovative isotope hydrology methods were presented, which make it possible to identify sources of water pollution, assess hydrological changes, and support ecosystem restoration.