WUF13 contributed to strengthening Azerbaijan's international reputation — OPINION

The 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) contributed to strengthening Azerbaijan's international reputation, Alimammad Nuriyev, head of the Constitution Research Foundation, told Report.

According to him, the session became a platform demonstrating what kind of state model Azerbaijan wants to present:

"Azerbaijan showcased its urban development vision and post-conflict restoration model at the event. One of the main areas presented by Azerbaijan during the session was the issue of balance between modern urban development and the protection of historical and cultural heritage. In many countries around the world, the process of urbanization weakens the memory of cities and leads to a distancing from historical heritage. As a result, modern cities are created, while the past is forgotten. Approaches to Icherisheher, Shusha and other historical cities in Azerbaijan show that a city is not only a communication system, but also a collective memory."

Nuriyev said one of the main topics that drew attention at WUF13 was reconstruction work in the liberated territories:

"When participants saw the restoration and reconstruction work carried out in Karabakh and East Zangezur, they assessed it as a model of full state mobilization. Reconstruction work both preserves historical heritage and uses modern approaches. The Great Return program was also among the notable points within the framework of the event. The main issue here is the creation of a safe and sustainable living environment. Another special point was that the smart city and smart village concept, as well as the application of alternative energy, green transport and sustainable infrastructure elements in Karabakh and East Zangezur, were received with particular interest by international experts. This model will also serve as an example for many post-conflict regions."

The head of the Constitution Research Foundation also said the "Baku Call for Breathing Cities" initiative attracted special attention as part of the session:

"At the event held at the initiative of Leyla Aliyeva, the issue of air quality and green infrastructure became a permanent part of the WUF13 agenda. This was a new approach to urban development. The establishment of the Baku Urban Award also shows Azerbaijan's intention to play an active role in the session's agenda. This step keeps Azerbaijan in focus not only as a participant, but also as an initiating country."

Nuriyev emphasized that after the successful organization of WUF13, increased international trust in Azerbaijan is being felt:

"In such events, the decisive role is played not by logistics, but by coordination, management flexibility and the ability to work with international partners. After COP29, the successful organization of WUF13 showed that Azerbaijan has serious experience in organizing global platforms. President Ilham Aliyev's speech at the opening of the forum should be especially noted. The head of state's views on a new approach to urban development, processes taking place in Azerbaijan's historical geography, and the past, present and future can also be assessed as a contribution to global urban development. It is also expected that Azerbaijan's experience will be referred to in future sessions of WUF."