Aqualink, a company operating in Azerbaijan, has implemented over 200 water sector projects with investments totaling approximately 30 million manats, leveraging innovative technologies and expertise from Dutch partners, according to Aqualink’s General Director in Azerbaijan, Orhan Mikail, in an interview with Trend, as reported by Day.Az.
Mikail highlighted the value of Dutch knowledge and experience, noting that with support from the Netherlands Embassy, Aqualink conducted a comprehensive study of Azerbaijan’s water sector in 2025. “This study serves as a critical resource for both the business community and the public, consolidating the country’s water sector plans,” he said. Aqualink is actively collaborating with the Netherlands and other European countries to modernize and sustainably develop Azerbaijan’s water infrastructure based on this research.
Currently representing four Dutch companies in Azerbaijan, Aqualink aims to expand its operations to new markets and establish additional international partnerships. Mikail emphasized the company’s long-standing collaboration with Dutch firms, applying their technical expertise and innovations to local projects.
Shahla Balakishiyeva, Advisor to the Dutch Ambassador, underscored the Netherlands’ unique approach, which integrates private sector, government, and academic efforts. She highlighted successful Dutch projects like Room for the River, Zandmotor, and Delta Works as models for sustainable water management solutions offered to Azerbaijan. The study, a follow-up to a Dutch trade mission to Azerbaijan in September 2024, explores opportunities for cooperation in water technology and resource management.
Balakishiyeva noted Azerbaijan’s water sector challenges, including drinking water shortages, declining water quality, climate change impacts, weak infrastructure, and transboundary water management issues, with over 70% of Azerbaijan’s water resources originating abroad. Leading Dutch institutions, such as IHE Delft, Wageningen University, Deltares, Royal Haskoning, and Witteveen+Bos, are eager to collaborate, offering technological solutions, professional training, and support for infrastructure modernization.
The study’s findings and recommendations have been shared with Azerbaijan’s government and private sector stakeholders through Aqualink. “This research provides practical guidance and outlines specific avenues for collaboration, aiming to serve as a strategic roadmap for enhancing the resilience of Azerbaijan’s water sector through joint initiatives, capacity building, and investments in innovative technologies,” Balakishiyeva stated.
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