Chechalashvili: WUF13 reflects Azerbaijan's growing global standing

Hosting such a high-level international forum in Azerbaijan is an indicator of the country's growing prestige and strengthening reputation in the system of international relations, Valeri Chechelashvili, head of the Center for Strategic Studies and analyst, told Report's Georgian bureau regarding the 13th session of the UN World Urban Forum (WUF13) held in Baku.

The analyst noted that this is primarily good for Azerbaijan, and at the same time, it is also a positive development for the South Caucasus as a whole: "Because as a region, we are beginning to appear more prominently on the map of international political interests."

According to Chechelashvili, the international events successfully hosted by Azerbaijan also have a positive impact on the development prospects of the region.

He said issues related to urbanization and urban policy are of particular importance in terms of regional cooperation: "This event is important not only for Azerbaijan, but also for Georgia and Armenia. Issues related to urbanization and urban policy are very important, and they need to be addressed collectively, sharing experiences, even mistakes made, and sharing competencies. This is precisely the main purpose of such conferences."

The political commentator emphasized that he believes the forum will be successful and beneficial: "I think this forum will be very successful and beneficial. I would like to congratulate Azerbaijan on this important step ahead."