On December 11, the next meeting of the Organizing Committee established for the preparation of the 13th session of the United Nations World Urban Forum (WUF13) was held.

 

Opening the meeting, Samir Nuriyev, Head of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Chairman of the Organizing Committee, stated that urban development is one of the priority areas in Azerbaijan’s national development strategy approved by President Ilham Aliyev. He noted that the modern approaches formed in our country in this field contribute to strengthening economic resilience, improving social welfare, and ensuring effective adaptation to climate change.

 

Samir Nuriyev emphasized that the large-scale reconstruction and construction works carried out over the past five years, particularly in the Karabakh and East Zangezur economic regions, clearly demonstrate the strategic vision of the Azerbaijani state in the sphere of urban development, its adherence to systematic planning principles, and its strong implementation capacity. He noted that the rapid reconstruction and building efforts implemented in the post-conflict period have shaped a new development model.

 

The Chairman of the Organizing Committee highlighted that these achievements have increased international interest in Azerbaijan’s experience and strengthened the country’s reputation as a reliable partner in this field. He added that the decision to hold WUF13 in Baku in 2026 is a clear indication of Azerbaijan’s contribution to global urban development processes, its policies in the direction of sustainable development, and the high trust it has earned as a dependable partner.

 

Samir Nuriyev underlined that the preparation for WUF13 remains under the direct attention of the head of state and discussed the work accomplished since the first meeting within the framework of preparations for the event.

 

Reports by the members of the Organizing Committee were then heard regarding the overall progress of preparations, the work carried out in substantive, communication, and organizational-logistical areas, as well as other issues on the agenda.

 

At the end of the meeting, the Chairman of the Organizing Committee gave instructions regarding the preparation process for WUF13, including the implementation of the Action Plan and other relevant matters, in line with the tasks set by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan to ensure the high-level organization and hosting of this prestigious event.