Azerbaijan secures influential role in shaping global sustainable cities policy PHOTO

On May 29-30, the Second Session of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) Assembly wrapped up in Nairobi, Kenya, marking a significant milestone for Azerbaijan.

Represented by Anar Guliyev, Chairman of the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture and National Coordinator for the upcoming World Urban Forum (WUF13), Azerbaijan presented its forward-thinking approaches to urban development.

According to the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture, during the Assembly’s elections, Azerbaijan was elected for the first time to serve on the UN-Habitat Executive Board for the 2025–2029 term, Caliber.Az reports.

This new membership empowers the country to take a more influential role in shaping international policies on urbanisation and advancing sustainable, inclusive city environments worldwide.

A major highlight of the Assembly was the official confirmation of the theme and date for the World Urban Forum 13, set to take place in Baku in 2026. Alongside this, the Assembly endorsed a new Strategic Plan for 2026–2029 and introduced a global framework focused on “People-Centred Smart Cities,” emphasising human-focused technological innovation in urban spaces.

Anar Guliyev underscored the increasing importance of cities in addressing global challenges, the critical role of COP29 in the climate agenda, and the strong international recognition for Azerbaijan’s initiatives through the Baku Sustainability Coalition.

At Azerbaijan’s exhibition booth, participants explored detailed plans for WUF13, innovative urban planning strategies, and the country’s ongoing initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable urban growth.

By Tamilla Hasanova