UK envoy: Azerbaijan-Armenia peace progress boosts regional connectivity

Progress in peacebuilding between Azerbaijan and Armenia shows how inclusive and sustainable development can play a key role in restoring regional connectivity and securing long-term stability, UK Ambassador to Azerbaijan Fergus Auld said.

Speaking at a ministerial roundtable during WUF13 in Baku, Auld highlighted that Azerbaijan’s smart cities and villages initiative demonstrates how technology and strategic planning can enhance quality of life when centered around people, as per local media.

"The United Kingdom is proud to support these efforts: leading British companies are involved in the design and development of urban environments in Azerbaijan," he said.

Auld also underscored that by hosting the 13th session of the World Urban Forum, Azerbaijan is offering a significant international platform to showcase how modern urban development can strengthen resilience, improve housing conditions, and expand access to opportunities.

"As the host of WUF13, Azerbaijan has become an important platform for demonstrating how modern urban development can deliver tangible benefits for communities, including improved housing conditions, digital connectivity, and access to economic opportunities," he said.

He added that the forum is expected to help accelerate the implementation of sustainable urbanization goals through 2036, describing it as a timely moment for renewed commitment and practical progress.

"The UK welcomes this ministerial session as a timely opportunity to reaffirm commitments and accelerate the implementation of sustainable urbanization through 2036," Auld emphasized.

Despite notable progress, Auld warned that global challenges persist, including uneven development, widening social inequality, and rising pressure on housing systems.

"The main problem lies not in the absence of principles, but in the gap at the implementation stage," the ambassador noted.

He also reiterated the United Kingdom’s continued commitment to the New Urban Agenda and its support for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

By Jeyhun Aghazada