In 1971, The Ramsar Convention (The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, especially as Waterfowl Habitat) was adopted in Ramsar (Iran). It is aimed at preventing the reduction and destruction of these ecosystems. 168 countries have joined the Convention.
Armenia joined the Convention in 1993, registering Lake Sevan and its drainage basin. This helped in the 90s to conduct serious research and study about 250 small wetlands.
The total territory of the wetlands of the republic, together with Lake Sevan, is 7% of the total territory. These territories are rich in biodiversity.
The following large wetlands of Armenia are included in the Ramsar Convention:
- Lake Sevan with its drainage basin (1993)
- Khor Virap Wetland (2007)
- Lake Arpi National Park (2009)