Iranian part of Hirkan forests included on the UNESCO World Heritage List

The nomination of Iran regarding Hirkan forests has been reviewed within the framework of the 43rd session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee in Baku, 

Report informs that the project suggests to include 1.5 million hectares of forest on the World Heritage List.

It was noted that the animals who were in danger of disappearing were settled in these forests.

A list of about 300 species of animals has been compiled. It was stressed that the territory must be protected. Here you can find many species of birds (falcons, eagles).

It was stated that the transportation of vehicles through the forest remains a potential threat. Protection of the territory is not provided at the proper level. There is a need to improve and change the legislation and harden penalties. Coordination mechanisms have been developed and it is guaranteed that management system will be strengthened. The integrity of this area is inevitable.

It was proposed to close some roads. The international union believes that the importance of the forest zone is obvious.

Head of Permanent Representation to UNESCO Anar Kerimov said that the border zone of forest belongs to both Iran and Azerbaijan. At the time, measures were taken to prevent the human factor: "Azerbaijan is disappointed that it could not present the nomination together with Iran."

At the end, the Iranian part of Hirkan forests has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.