Azernews.Az

Nazrin Abdul

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For the first time in Azerbaijan, the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13) will feature a leaders’ summit, bringing together heads of state and government to discuss the future of cities, says Anar Guliyev, Chairman of the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture and national coordinator of WUF13, during a briefing dedicated to the diplomatic corps, Azernews reports.

According to him, Azerbaijan is introducing a series of new initiatives to enhance the forum’s significance and impact. The leaders’ summit will mark an innovative first for WUF, providing a platform for political leaders to engage directly on urban development and sustainability, highlighting Azerbaijan’s intent to play a key role in shaping global priorities.

He noted that the country aims to usher in a new era of political commitment to sustainable and resilient urban futures. Drawing on lessons from COP29, the ministerial-level sessions at WUF13 will be redesigned to be more interactive, practical, and results-oriented, fostering direct exchanges among ministers, mayors, experts, and practitioners.

This updated format is expected to strengthen political dialogue, accelerate decision-making, and support countries in achieving concrete outcomes for urban and housing priorities. In addition, WUF13 will place special emphasis on extensive and meaningful participation from cities and local governments.

WUF13 is scheduled to take place in Baku from May 17 to 22, 2026. The forum is organized in collaboration between the Azerbaijani government and the UN-HABITAT Program of the United Nations and will bring together representatives from governments, municipalities, the private sector, civil society, youth and academic circles, as well as international organizations from around the world.