Rarely, a tree can be transplanted or cut down under the decision of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources. The situation is more positive than it was in previous years, but we were not able to fully achieve our goals. They come at nights, illegally cut down trees and level ground to build a house there. It is dishonesty, disgrace and a crime,” said Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev at the meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers on the outcomes of the socio-economic development of the first quarter of 2014 and tasks laying ahead.

The Head of State noted that “Year of Ecology” was declared in Azerbaijan a few years ago: “I remember I said during the discussions of the activities carried out during the Year of Ecology that we should declare the “Year of Ecology” an annual event, because the environment is an important issue for Baku and Absheron peninsula. There are puddles and places foiling oil for centuries. In recent years, we have done a lot in this direction.

Over ten million trees have been planted during the tree-planting campaign and this process is going on. Therefore the issues related to the environmental situation are focus of our attention. However, I am and the society is concerned over this process. We should prevent it. I consider that we should apply severe punishment in this regard.”

Expressed the need for the complete cessation of cutting down trees, President Aliyev instructed the relevant agencies to submit their proposals: “We have to take more serious measures against those who cut down trees. They should be brought to account. I want to say once again that no tree can be cut down in the city without the permission of the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources. This is my last warning.