Dovlatkhanov: WUF13 boosts global cooperation

Azerbaijan continues to implement broader national priorities in sustainable urbanization, said Dovlatkhan Dovlatkhanov, Deputy Chairman of the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture, Report informs.

He made the remark during the international conference under the theme Formation of Human Capital for Sustainable Urban Development held within Baku Urban Week, jointly organized by Baku State University (BSU) and the Committee.

The official noted that Azerbaijan is expanding affordable housing programs and modernizing public infrastructure:

"Azerbaijan continues to implement broader national priorities in sustainable urbanization. This includes expanding affordable housing programs, modernizing public infrastructure, developing digital public services, and integrating renewable energy projects into territorial development strategies. Issues such as climate change, housing accessibility, efficient resource use, urban mobility, digital transformation, and post‑crisis recovery increasingly require integrated and multifaceted approaches. In this regard, platforms like the World Urban Forum (WUF13) create important opportunities for knowledge exchange and international cooperation. These platforms enable governments, academic institutions, international organizations, and urban development experts to share experiences and develop practical approaches for sustainable urban growth."

Dovlatkhanov emphasized that climate, housing, resources, mobility, digitalization, and recovery issues demand multidimensional approaches:

"We consider the decisions to be adopted at WUF13 in Baku as an important opportunity to contribute to global discussions on the future of cities and communities. We attach particular importance to strengthening dialogue among government institutions, technical experts, universities, and international organizations. Sustainable urbanization requires not only investment and infrastructure but also institutional learning and long‑term human capital development. I am confident that today's discussions will help strengthen cooperation networks, expand professional knowledge exchange, and give new impetus to scientific research with practical significance in urban planning."