The 20-year implementation period for the New Urban Agenda has reached its midpoint, and the realization of targets set for 2036 must be ensured, according to Nga Kor Ming, Malaysia's Minister of Housing and Local Government and President of the UN-Habitat Assembly.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that the Minister made these remarks during a press briefing held within the framework of the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) taking place in Azerbaijan. He emphasized that the primary objective of the forum extends beyond high participation rates to achieving concrete, actionable results in urban development.
The Minister praised Azerbaijan for its successful hosting of WUF13, noting that the event stands as the largest World Urban Forum organized to date. Nga Kor Ming further highlighted that housing has been identified as a top priority at this year's forum, stressing that a home is not merely a physical structure but a living space that provides people with a sense of hope and security.
“When we return to our respective countries after the forum, we must focus more on constructing homes that respond to people's needs, ensuring connectivity and quality of life,” the Minister stated.
The World Urban Forum, established by the United Nations in 2001, is the premier global conference on sustainable urbanization. Hosted in Baku, WUF13 serves as a critical platform for policymakers, urban planners, and civil society to address the challenges of rapid urbanization and the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. Azerbaijan's selection as the host venue underscores the country's growing role in international diplomacy and its commitment to modern urban reconstruction, particularly in the liberated territories of Garabagh and East Zangezur.
