Gulshan Rzayeva: Azerbaijan's reconstruction model may serve as example for post-conflict countries

The Azerbaijani reconstruction model can be applied to post-crisis and post-conflict states facing similar challenges, Gulshan Rzayeva, deputy head of the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture and Deputy National Coordinator of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13), said during a panel session entitled "Peace-Positive Climate Action through Urban Solutions in Fragile and Conflict-Affected Settings," Report informs.

According to her, Azerbaijan's experience in restoring liberated territories is forming the basis for a new approach to post-conflict development.

"Azerbaijan has very good experience in restoring and reconstructing its territories in Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur, which were occupied and devastated for many years. Large-scale initiatives are currently being implemented in these territories. We believe that Azerbaijan is creating a model for post-crisis and post-conflict countries facing similar challenges," she said.

She emphasized that the ongoing work is comprehensive and involves not only the physical restoration of the urban environment but also the strengthening of peace and sustainable development in the region.

According to her, special attention is being paid to modern, people-centered urban planning during the restoration work, as well as a comprehensive approach to infrastructure accessibility.

"First, this involves building cities, essentially from scratch, using people-centered urban planning principles. This includes infrastructure development, but not limited to it. Accessibility is considered a comprehensive approach to spatial planning in this region," she noted.