Azerbaijan National Academy of Science

A working group under ANAS Correspondent Member of ANAS, Talat Kangarli, created by the Institute of Geology and Geophysics of the National Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan, carried out researches in the regions and conducted monitoring of rare geological objects.

As a result of the researches, it was expedient to establish Gulfa (Ilandag), Girmaki, Khaltan and Basqal National Geoparks, which comply with the requirements of UNESCO and the ProGEO. This was also reported in the book "Geological Heritage of the Republic of Azerbaijan" published in 2013.

From this point of view, the establishment of the geological park "Ilandag" in the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic is considered to be more appropriate by applying the "three in one" (geosites, architectural and archaeological monuments, biodiversity) model in the protected areas. Ordubad Historical-Architectural Reserve established in 1977 and the Zangazur National Park, which has been operating since 2003, can be included in this structure. Here is another reason why the geopark is the only place in the area where it is located. On the right bank of the Araz River, the activity of the Gulf Geopark in the Islamic Republic of Iran clearly demonstrates the existence of conditions for the establishment of a more highly-fenced geopark supported by UNESCO and the ProGEO. In this connection, representatives of the Institute of Geology and Geophysics made a report on the possibility of organizing the “Ilandag” geopark at the 3rd session of the GeoPrograms and Geoparks Program at the invitation of UNESCO in Paris in February of the current year. The secretariat of the session welcomed the initiative of the Azerbaijani scientists and stated that it would support the Global Geoparks, the World Heritage List and the solution of relevant organizational issues.

It should be noted that the establishment of the “Ilandag” geopark allows the creation of a single mechanism with the participation of local people in the protection of nature and architectural monuments. At the same time, the development of geotourism can provide valuable support for the stability of economic activity and local organizations in the autonomous republic.

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