Azerbaijan set to ink major water cooperation agreements at international forum

A series of strategic memoranda of understanding are set to be signed during the 2nd International Exhibition and Conference on Water Management – Baku Water Week, which will take place on September 10–12 at the Baku Expo Centre.

The upcoming forum will see both public and private sector entities formalise partnerships aimed at advancing water resource management and innovation in Azerbaijan, Caliber.Az reports.

A notable highlight will be the public-private partnership agreement between ACWA Power and the Azerbaijan State Water Resources Agency. In addition, a memorandum of cooperation is expected to be signed between ACWA Power and the Scientific Research Institute of Water Management and Land Reclamation, aimed at facilitating joint research projects and knowledge exchange in the field of sustainable water solutions.

These agreements mark a significant step in enhancing Azerbaijan’s water infrastructure and technological capabilities, particularly in response to rising demand and climate-related challenges.

One of the major projects under discussion involves the construction of a seawater desalination plant in Sumgayit, a collaborative venture between ACWA Power and Türkiye's IC İçtaş İnşaat. The construction is expected to take 2.5 years, with the facility designed to operate for a total of 27.5 years before being handed over to Azerbaijan’s State Water Resources Agency.

Baku Water Week, now in its second edition, has quickly established itself as the region’s premier platform for dialogue and innovation in water management. The event brings together international experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss advanced technologies, policy frameworks, and collaborative initiatives for sustainable water use.

By Vafa Guliyeva