Memorandum of Understanding Signed Between Georgia’s National Environment Agency and Armenia’s Hydrometeorology and Monitoring Center

A Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of monitoring and information exchange in the Khrami–Debeda transboundary river basin was signed in Yerevan by Elene Ghubianuri, Head of the National Environment Agency of Georgia, and Levon Azizyan, Director of the Hydrometeorology and Monitoring Center of Armenia.

During the working visit, the parties delivered presentations on their respective activities and discussed ways to strengthen capacities and exchange data through joint efforts.

It was noted at the meeting that the cooperation envisages joint monitoring of selected water bodies—both surface and groundwater—in the Khrami–Debeda river basin, as well as information exchange and the preparation of status reports. Based on this framework, the parties will carry out coordinated monitoring activities and systematic data sharing.

“This memorandum is based on many years of cooperation between our countries, consultations, joint fieldwork, and the progress achieved in harmonizing monitoring standards, supported by the EUWI Plus and EU4Environment programs on water resources and environmental data. The Khrami–Debeda river basin is a shared resource of vital importance for Georgia and Armenia, providing water for ecosystems, agriculture, energy, and local communities. Through this memorandum, we are establishing a clear institutional framework for joint monitoring, data exchange, and reporting on both surface and groundwater resources,” said Elene Ghubianuri.

According to Levon Azizyan, the Armenian–Georgian joint monitoring program will contribute to the harmonization of monitoring networks, field measurements, and laboratory testing methodologies between the two countries, as well as improve technical formats for data comparability and the frequency of data exchange.

“Joint monitoring by our countries in the Khrami–Debeda basin has a long and successful history, which began under EU-supported programs. By signing this memorandum, we are institutionalizing this long-standing cooperation through the creation of a stable, long-term, and mutually trusted data framework, ensuring comprehensive and ecosystem-based management of the basin’s water resources,” Levon Azizyan noted.