From September 17 to 21, 2026, an international scientific event dedicated to the “Study, Protection and Sustainable Development of the Geographical and Natural Heritage of the South Caucasus Region” was held in Tbilisi, Georgia. The event was organized at the Vakhushti Bagrationi Institute of Geography of Tbilisi State University and served as an important scientific platform for discussing the geographical potential of the region, the protection of natural and geological heritage, prospects for the sustainable development of geoparks, as well as current directions in modern geographical and geospatial research.

A delegation representing Azerbaijan participated in the international event. The delegation included Zaur Imrani, Acting Director of the Institute of Geography, PhD in Geography, Associate Professor; U. Mammadova, PhD in Agricultural Sciences; Shabnam Mammadova, PhD in Agricultural Sciences; Sevinj Burzuyeva, Lamiya Khalilova, Yusif Hidayatli, Gular Hidayatli, Shams Imrani, and Nazim Garayli.

The participants delivered presentations on various areas of geographical science and shared information on the natural and geographical characteristics of the South Caucasus with the participants. Discussions and exchanges of views focused on the application of modern geographical methods, natural heritage conservation, geospatial analysis, the establishment and development of geoparks, environmental sustainability, and sustainable territorial management.

As a continuation of the international conference held within the framework of the project, a scientific excursion was organized to important archaeological and cultural heritage sites in Georgia. As part of the excursion, the Gadachrili Gora archaeological site, the Second Bolnisi Museum, and the Dmanisi Archaeological Museum were visited. During the trip, participants explored the ancient settlement history, archaeological heritage, natural and geographical characteristics, and cultural landscapes of the South Caucasus.

The participation of the Azerbaijani delegation in the event is significant in terms of developing scientific ties with scientists and specialists from the countries of the region, expanding the exchange of experience in existing research areas, and identifying new opportunities for future joint scientific initiatives.