Armenia's disregard for environmental preservation is evident in its actions, which pose a danger to humanity. The establishment of a large metallurgical facility near Azerbaijan's border without seeking coordination with Azerbaijan is a blatant violation of international environmental standards and norms and a deeply concerning matter. The Yeraskh metallurgical plants, under construction near Azerbaijan's borders, are anticipated to exert a substantial negative impact on the entire region.

In an alarming breach of international law, Armenia has once again demonstrated non-compliance, specifically infringing upon the UN Economic Commission for the European Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment in a Transboundary Context (Espoo Convention). Armenia has a history of ignoring and violating international norms, including environmental regulations.

The repercussions of Armenia's actions extend beyond mere violations of international law. The discharge of waste into the Araz River, utilized for irrigation by local farms, poses a significant threat to aquatic life and human health. This environmental transgression could result in the spread of infectious diseases and jeopardize drinking water supplies, thus creating a dire public health crisis not only for Azerbaijan but also for Armenians.

Armenia's actions have escalated beyond being a regional issue. It is imperative for Armenia to renounce its current course of eco-terrorism, given the dire environmental risks that loom large over our planet.

International environmental activists have a crucial role to play in this scenario. Urgent action is needed to curtail Armenia's destructive activities. It is imperative for them to demand an immediate cessation of mining industry operations that jeopardize the region and the global environment as a whole. The international community must collectively address Armenia's damaging actions, which not only undermine regional environmental security but also violate established norms of international law.

Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram, Executive Director, Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF), Islamabad.

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