Azerbaijan, UN-Habitat sign logistics agreement for 13th World Urban Forum PHOTO

An important milestone in preparations for the 13th session of the World Urban Forum was reached this week, as Azerbaijan and the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) signed a Logistics Agreement outlining all organisational arrangements for the global event.

The signing ceremony took place in Geneva with Anar Guliyev, Chairman of the State Committee on Urban Planning and Architecture of Azerbaijan, and UN-Habitat Executive Director Anacláudia Rossbach in attendance, according to a statement by Guliyev on X.

The agreement builds upon the Host Country Agreement signed in December 2023 and moves preparations into a practical and operational phase.

“The signing of this document marks a significant step forward in preparing for WUF13 in Baku, which will be held from May 17 to 22, 2026, under the theme ‘Housing the world: Safe and resilient cities and communities,’” Guliyev said. “We highly value the fruitful cooperation between UN-Habitat and Azerbaijan and note the successful implementation of joint projects in the field of urban development.”

Guliyev highlighted Azerbaijan’s active contributions to shaping the global urban agenda. “This includes the organisation of three National Urban Forums in Garabagh and East Zangazur, as well as events held in Baku in 2023 to mark World Habitat Day.

Azerbaijan also participates in the Expert Working Group on the development of international guidelines on people-centred smart cities and co-chairs the Intergovernmental Expert Working Group on adequate housing for all.”

He added, “We are confident that the consistent development of our partnership with UN-Habitat provides a solid foundation and will contribute to advancing sustainable, inclusive, and people-focused cities.”

By Aghakazim Guliyev