Over the past five years, Azerbaijan has allocated a substantial sum of 93.3 million manats (about $54.9 million) in subsidies for the construction of irrigation systems covering an area of 38,200 hectares, Deputy Minister of Agriculture Ilhama Gadimova said at the event titled "The Role of Climate-Resilient Water Management Systems in Agriculture: COP29 Roundtable Discussions," Report informs.

She emphasized that various incentives and subsidies are being implemented to encourage the adoption of modern irrigation systems.

"Close collaboration with farmers and supporting them in adopting climate-resilient approaches can accelerate this process," Gadimova stated. "Farmers' efficient use of water resources and adaptation to climate change are crucial steps for the sustainable development of the sector.

These efforts align with the main objectives of the Harmony Initiative, which will be presented during the Food, Agriculture, and Water Day at COP29 on November 19. The initiative aims to provide necessary support to agricultural communities and farmers in implementing modern water management systems and climate-resilient practices."

Gadimova stressed the importance of cooperating with developed countries in the fight against climate change and the development of water management systems. "Learning from their experiences, acquiring innovative solutions, and adapting these solutions to our conditions will make our agriculture more resilient to climate change," she added.