The Kura-Aras river system is critical to sustainable development of the South Caucasus countries - Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia. It is the principal source of water for industry, agriculture, residential uses and energy. Accordingly, the management and protection of the river system is reflected in the national development and environment policies and plans of the three countries. The rivers are also important to sustainable development for sizeable populations in the two upstream countries - Iran and Turkey. The rivers run into and impact the Caspian Sea, therefore affecting all communities using the Sea, in particular those of Iran and Azerbaijan.