WUF13 set new roadmap for global urban policy - OPINION

Hosting the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Azerbaijan confirmed the country's growing international standing, its active participation in global processes, and the high regard the international community holds for its urban development and sustainable development policies, Azerbaijani MP Vugar Rahimzada said, Report informs.

He noted that the forum, held in Baku from May 17 to 22, organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-Habitat) and the Government of Azerbaijan, served as an important platform for discussing urban development, sustainable development, and inclusive living environments.

The MP noted that the forum demonstrated Azerbaijan's growing role in international cooperation and the contemporary urban development agenda.

According to Rahimzada, Baku once again served as a platform for global dialogue, international partnership, and multilateral cooperation. He also noted that WUF13 was the second biggest international event after COP29.

Rahimzada stated that Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, in his speech at the forum's opening ceremony, reaffirmed the country's commitment to urban development and improving living conditions for its residents. He stated that WUF13 has defined a new roadmap for global urban development policy.

The MP also noted that for the first time in the history of the World Urban Forum, a Leaders' Statements Session was held at WUF13, at the initiative of President Ilham Aliyev, with the participation of heads of state and government from 27 countries, heads of international organizations, and high-ranking guests.