A ministerial-level meeting on the progress of the New Urban Agenda, titled "National Ministerial Statements," is being held in Baku as part of the Thirteenth Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13).
According to Operative Information Center-OMM, citing AZERTAC, the event featured a keynote address by Nga Kor Ming, Malaysia's Minister of Housing and Local Government and the current President of the UN-Habitat Assembly. He emphasized that urbanization is a national necessity for Malaysia, where over 75 percent of the population resides in urban areas. He noted that while cities drive the national economy, rapid urbanization presents significant challenges regarding housing affordability, climate change, and social inclusion.
Anar Guliyev, the National Coordinator of WUF13 and Chairman of the State Committee for City Planning and Architecture, stated that more than half of Azerbaijan's liberated territories will be designated as green zones.
"Projects implemented in Garabagh and East Zangilan are carried out in accordance with sustainable development principles. More than half of the region's territory has been identified as a green zone. Renewable energy, ecological approaches, and modern urbanization principles are among the top priorities within these projects," Guliyev said.
He further noted that approximately $14.7 billion has been invested in infrastructure and housing projects in Garabagh and East Zangilan over the past five years. "By 2028, this amount is expected to reach $18 billion. The projects encompass 'smart' infrastructure, renewable energy, sustainable land use, and digital management systems," he added.
Carlos Alberto Gregorio dos Santos, Angola's Minister of Public Works, Urbanism, and Housing, also addressed the session, highlighting that his country is experiencing rapid urbanization due to demographic growth and large-scale internal migration. With Angola's population exceeding 36 million, the rapid urban influx is placing significant pressure on housing, transport infrastructure, and sanitation systems. The minister expressed hope that WUF13 would provide solutions to these pressing global urban challenges.
The World Urban Forum, established by the United Nations in 2001, is the premier global conference on sustainable urbanization. Held every two years, it serves as a high-level platform for policymakers, urban planners, and civil society to discuss the implementation of the New Urban Agenda. The hosting of WUF13 in Baku underscores Azerbaijan's growing role in international urban development and its commitment to the 'Great Return' program, which focuses on the sustainable reconstruction of territories liberated from occupation.
