Rome: A conference titled “13th World Urban Forum-Baku 2026: Architectural Heritage, Urban Renewal and New Centers” was held at the Metropolitan City Center of Rome, with the support of the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Italy. The event brought together diplomats, academics, and media representatives.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the conference was organized as part of the ‘Year of Urban Planning and Architecture.’ It aimed to discuss the transformation of Baku into a major center for large-scale international events, continue high-level dialogue between Baku and Rome on the future of cities, and promote international participation by providing detailed information about the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13), scheduled to take place in Baku from May 17 to 22, 2026.
Addressing the event, Gulnar Tagizade, Deputy Director of the Cultural Center under the Azerbaijani Embassy in Italy, emphasized that the conference is part of the WUF13 journey and represents more than a single event, describing it as a bridge between two cultures and a symbolic dialogue between the two capitals.
Other speakers included Nigar Gurbanova Ramazanli, Diplomat responsible for cultural affairs at the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Italy, Elena Andreoni, Director of the Metropolitan City Center, Manuela Traldi, President of the Italy-Azerbaijani Chamber of Commerce, among others.
The conference concluded with a video message from Andrea Tobia Zevi, Councilor for Heritage and Housing Policies in Rome.