Baku: Baku and Azerbaijan are demonstrating a strong vision in sustainable urban development and adequate housing, stated Edlam Yemeru, Director of the Strategic Knowledge and Innovation Division of the UN-Habitat, during an information session for members of the diplomatic corps about the 13th session of the UN World Urban Forum (WUF13), APA reports.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Edlam Yemeru explained that interested host countries and cities submit applications to UN-Habitat, which are seriously and comprehensively evaluated. The evaluation criteria include the commitment to sustainable urban development, resilient cities, and adequate housing, as well as the ability to provide logistics and infrastructure for forum participants. Baku and Azerbaijan met these criteria, demonstrating a strong vision in these areas.
Yemeru emphasized that Baku is a unique venue for the World Urban Forum, merging culture with modernity and tradition with innovation. The Forum is seen as creating significant opportunities for Azerbaijan and Central Asia, allowing the region to connect globally and showcase its experiences in sustainable urban development. It is also viewed as a strategic moment for regional cooperation to advance these goals. Yemeru expressed confidence that the Forum would positively impact policy and promote sustainable urban development and housing in the region.