On July 10, 2025, a scientific-practical conference was organized at the Institute of Soil Science and Agrochemistry of the Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan on the topic "Soil and water resources of the Eastern Zangezur and Karabakh economic regions: problems and prospects".

The main goal of the two-day event is to discuss problems related to the study, protection and efficient use of land and water resources in the liberated territories on a scientific basis and to identify promising directions.

The conference began with the opening of the Soil Museum, which operates under the Institute of Soil Science and Agrochemistry of the Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan, after reconstruction.

 At the beginning of the event, the National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan was played, followed by a minute of silence in memory of the martyrs who gave their lives for the Motherland.

Speaking at the plenary session, President of ANAS, Academician Isa Habibbeyli emphasized the topical and strategic importance of the conference. He stated that, the scientific study and assessment of land and water resources in the liberated territories plays an important role in the future development of our country. The academician also noted that, land and water resources are strategic resources for every country, Karabakh and East Zangezur have great potential. He emphasized that, the scientific base and experience formed over many years by the Institute of Soil Science and Agrochemistry will make a significant contribution to the development of the rehabilitated areas. He emphasized that, the main task facing the scientific community is to conduct large-scale scientific research in these regions.

Head of the Department for Work with Scientific Institutions of the State Agency for Science and Higher Education- Mubariz Hajibeyov said in his speech that, reorganization work is currently underway in the economic regions of Azerbaijan, and that the Karabakh and East Zangezur economic regions occupy a special place among the new economic regions. He emphasized that, the main task facing the scientific community is to conduct large-scale scientific research in these regions.

Corresponding member of ANAS, professor and director general of the İnstitute - Alovsat Guliyev, reviewed the institute's 80 years of activity and spoke about scientific achievements and research directions of strategic importance. He stated that, the Institute is a leading force in conducting research on soil and water resources in the territories liberated from occupation. Alovsat Guliyev also spoke about international scientific relations, projects investigating the impact of climate change on soil systems, and strengthening the laboratory base. He noted that, the study of soil and water resources in the Karabakh and East Zangezur economic regions is one of the Institute's main priorities.

 Director of the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnologies, Academician-Irada Huseynova highly appreciated the work done to establish the Soil Museum and collect samples there, and noted the role of prominent scientists in the development of soil science.

In his speech, Director of the Agrarian Innovation Center of the Ministry of Agriculture - Anar Jafarov highlighted the institute's achievements in the field of land reclamation and mapping of Azerbaijani lands. He especially noted, the institute's significant services in the development of soil classification methodology, combating soil degradation, and other areas. At the end of his speech, Anar Jafarov presented a specially prepared plaque of gratitude to the director of the institute on the occasion of his 80th anniversary.

Corresponding Member of ANAS, Doctor of Agricultural Sciences - Amin Ismayilov delivered a report on the topic “Scientific foundations of the efficient use of land resources of the Karabakh and East Zangezur economic regions” at the conference. Speaking online, Doctor of Agricultural Sciences, Professor Amin Babayev presented the topic "Agroecological aspects of the development of organic (ecological) agriculture in Karabakh."

Chairwoman of the SEBA (Seoul-Baku) Azerbaijan - Korea Cultural Exchange Association - Ruhangiz Heydarova, Director of the Agricultural Research Institute of the Ministry of Agriculture, Academician Doctor of Philosophy in Agrarian Sciences, Associate Professor - Faig Khudayev, and President of the International Eurasian Press Foundation - Umud Mirzayev and many guests attended at the conference.

Section meetings continue in the second half of the day.

Other speeches touched upon the efficient use of land resources in the Karabakh and East Zangezur economic regions, the search for alternative sources in the face of water scarcity, the impact of climate change, and other topics. The conference is being held in both offline and online formats. At the end of the event, there will be a question-and-answer session and exchange of views, with participants emphasizing the importance of science-based approaches for the agroecological development of the region. It was noted that, the scientific results will contribute to future research and cooperation.