On 18 January, 2023, the Republic of Armenia was notified regarding the initiation of arbitration proceedings against the Republic of Armenia by the Republic of Azerbaijan within the framework of the Bern Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention).

The representation of RA on International Legal Matters informed.

The Republic of Armenia regrets that Azerbaijan has decided to initiate a legal process based on a document, the main objective of which is to “promote… cooperation” between states aimed  to ensure conservation of wild flora and fauna species and their habitats. Armenia has reaffirmed its commitment to the conservation of the region’s wildlife and environmental protection on numerous occasions, including through its work with Berne Convention monitoring and other bodies.

The international ranking of Armenia’s environmental protection itself testifies this. Armenia is concerned that the issues raised by Azerbaijan in the form of a legal dispute have nothing to do with the aim of the Berne Convention and may have a detrimental effect on the environment of the region, which has also suffered significant damage as a result of aggressive wars waged by Azerbaijan in recent years.

The Republic of Armenia is committed to the protection and conservation of the environment and will continue to fulfill its obligations under international environmental documents, including the Berne Convention.