An information session for media representatives has been held in Baku as part of the preparations for the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13). The event was jointly organized by the Media Development Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan, ADA University, and the WUF13 Azerbaijan Operating Company to provide journalists with comprehensive insights into upcoming urban development initiatives.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that during the opening ceremony, Natiq Mammadli, Deputy Executive Director of the Media Development Agency, emphasized that international platforms like WUF13 are crucial for discussing sustainable urban planning and sharing best practices. He noted that it is essential for media representatives to evaluate these topics in detail and convey them to the public within the correct context. Aygun Hajiyeva, Advisor to the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs at ADA University, highlighted the university's close cooperation with the media, noting that approximately 600 media representatives have been involved in training programs on national and global issues in recent years.
Katerina Bezgachina, Communications Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), stated that hosting WUF13 in Azerbaijan creates unique opportunities for the media. She noted that the event will allow journalists to communicate directly with global experts and cover the most pressing topics in urban planning on-site. The session included detailed presentations on the "Baku Master Plan" by Chagri Karimzada of the Baku City Main Department for Architecture and Urban Planning, as well as discussions on green transport and micromobility by Nargiz Gulmaliyeva from the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport.
The World Urban Forum, established by the United Nations in 2001, is the world's premier conference on sustainable urbanization. Hosting the 13th session in Azerbaijan underscores the country's commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and its proactive role in addressing global urban challenges. The forum serves as a high-level platform for stakeholders to examine the impact of rapid urbanization on communities, economies, and climate change, fostering international cooperation for more inclusive and resilient cities.
