Azerbaijani cities are undergoing a significant modernization process that harmonizes historical traditions with contemporary urban requirements, stated Hikmet Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration. Speaking in the context of the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13), Hajiyev reiterated key points from the opening remarks made by President Ilham Aliyev regarding the nation's deep-rooted urban planning culture.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that Hajiyev told journalists that Azerbaijan's history of urban development extends back to ancient times, citing the capital of ancient Caucasian Albania, Gabala, as well as Nakhchivan and various medieval cities. "Azerbaijan preserves historical traditions in the process of city development through modernization. Today, the capital Baku is the most beautiful example of this, and it is recognized on a global scale," Hajiyev remarked, noting that several historical sites in Azerbaijan and Baku have been included in UNESCO lists.
The World Urban Forum (WUF), established by the United Nations in 2001, serves as the world's premier conference on urban issues, examining the challenges of rapid urbanization and its impact on communities, economies, and climate change. Azerbaijan's active participation and hosting of urban-focused events reflect the country's commitment to sustainable development and the integration of smart-city technologies within its restored territories and established urban centers like Baku and Ganja.
