Islamabad: A conference titled ‘Reimagining Cities: Azerbaijan-Pakistan Dialogue on Urban Planning and Sustainable Development,’ initiated by the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Pakistan, took place at the National University of Modern Languages (NUML) in Islamabad, Pakistan. The event gathered NUML academic staff, students, and members of the diplomatic corps. A video presentation highlighted Azerbaijan’s extensive restoration efforts in its liberated territories under the ‘Great Return’ program.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Khazar Farhadov, Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, mentioned that 2026 has been designated as the ‘Year of Urban Planning and Architecture’ in Azerbaijan. He pointed out that Baku’s selection as the host city for the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) signifies Azerbaijan’s contribution to global urbanization efforts and the substantial trust placed in the country.
Farhadov discussed housing as a fundamental element of sustainable development. He explained how the ‘Smart City’ and ‘Smart Village’ initiatives in Azerbaijan’s Garabagh and East Zangezur economic regions, along with the Fuzuli, Zangilan, and Lachin international airports, have played a key role in the post-conflict restoration process. He suggested that Pakistan might benefit from these experiences.
The ambassador also stressed the importance of bolstering bilateral relations through collaboration in urban planning and sustainable development. Other speakers at the conference underscored Azerbaijan’s successful hosting of COP29, as well as the significant restoration projects in Baku and the liberated territories, describing them as exemplary models of modern and sustainable urban planning.
Source: Azerbaijan State News Agency