Guliyeva: Private sector becoming driving force in building sustainable cities

The private sector is turning into a leading force in the construction of sustainable cities, Sevda Guliyeva, Secretary General of the Association of Azerbaijan Construction Materials Manufacturers Public Union, said during an event at the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, Report informs.

According to Guliyeva, global urban planning, sustainable construction, innovative materials, and the green economy are among the key topics on the world agenda today.

"In such a period, expanding cooperation among sector representatives, promoting experience exchange, and establishing new partnerships are of special importance. As the Association of Azerbaijan Construction Materials Manufacturers, we support companies in building new business connections both domestically and internationally, expanding sales and export opportunities, and identifying reliable partners. Our association organizes business meetings, B2B sessions, foreign and regional visits, international exhibitions, and forums to strengthen public-private cooperation. These initiatives contribute significantly to creating a sustainable collaboration environment among companies," she stated.

She added that the Association also continues efforts to promote the Made in Azerbaijan brand in international markets, presenting local products and enhancing export potential.

Guliyeva emphasized the role of the private sector in social responsibility, noting that many companies implement projects to strengthen social inclusion, increase employment opportunities, support women's economic activity, and foster community development:

"These initiatives help reinforce social equality and welfare in cities. Overall, cooperation between the public and private sectors is one of the main conditions for building sustainable cities, and the leading role of the private sector in this process is of great importance."

She concluded that investment and innovation are key in sustainable city-building: "The role of the private sector is immense. In a period of rapid urbanization worldwide, ecological, social, and economic sustainability of cities is possible only with the active participation of the private sector. With innovation, investment, and technological capacity, the private sector acts as a main partner in shaping sustainable cities."