Azerbaijan outlines urban sustainability vision at UN platform in New York

Anar Guliyev, Chairman of Azerbaijan’s State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture, delivered a speech at a high-level United Nations event focused on localising the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The session was hosted by the UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) in partnership with Italy’s Permanent Mission to the UN in New York.

According to Caliber.Az, citing the State Committee, Guliyev used the opportunity to highlight the robust bilateral cooperation between Azerbaijan and Italy, especially in sectors such as energy, trade, education, and culture. He noted that this partnership holds strong potential for expansion into areas including urban development, green infrastructure, and the joint pursuit of SDG implementation.

Guliyev underscored that Azerbaijan has embedded the SDGs into its national strategic vision under the “Azerbaijan 2030: National Priorities” framework. This strategy encompasses key pillars such as social well-being, economic development, environmental sustainability, and effective governance. He emphasised that the successful realisation of these goals hinges on high-quality urban planning and governance, positioning urban development as a cornerstone in transforming global commitments into actionable local outcomes.

A particular focus of his address was Azerbaijan’s use of urban planning as a core tool within its broader national development agenda. He noted that comprehensive master plans are either completed or underway for 86% of Azerbaijani cities, each designed with a 20-year planning outlook.

Guliyev also drew attention to Azerbaijan’s reconstruction efforts in territories regained following recent conflicts. He highlighted the country’s adoption of the “build back better” approach, which prioritises not just the return of internally displaced persons, but also the creation of sustainable, inclusive urban environments that could serve as regional models. In this context, he pointed to the strategic role of special presidential representatives in coordinating governance and facilitating SDG localisation at the regional level.

Looking ahead, Guliyev announced that Baku will host the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13) in May 2026, where localisation of the SDGs will be a central theme. Additionally, he revealed that the 3rd National Urban Forum is scheduled for October this year and will feature a dedicated session on SDG localisation, bringing together representatives from local governments, civil society, and international stakeholders.

By Tamilla Hasanova