WUF13 - the 13th session of the World Urban Forum held in Baku confirmed Azerbaijan's growing role as a platform for global dialogue, sustainable development and multilateral cooperation. MP Mushfiq Mammadli, member of the Milli Majlis Health Committee, stated this in an interview with Oxu.Az.
The deputy noted that the forum, with over 57,000 participants from 176 countries, was the largest WUF session in history and the second largest global event in Azerbaijan after COP29. 'This fact demonstrates Azerbaijan's status as a country that has gained international trust and organizes large-scale events at a high level,' he emphasized.
Mammadli added that for the first time in WUF history, a Leaders' Statements Session was held on the initiative of President Ilham Aliyev, showcasing Azerbaijan's ability to create new platforms for political dialogue. The participation of dozens of heads of state and government and international organization leaders shows Azerbaijan is recognized as a strategic partner at the global level.
The final document of the Ministers' meeting held within WUF13 highly appreciated Azerbaijan's hospitality, successful organization, President's leadership and post-conflict reconstruction policy. This indicates that the reconstruction processes in the liberated territories are accepted as an international example.
The deputy emphasized that Azerbaijan acted not only as a host but also as a country sharing its experience. The 'smart city' and 'smart village' concepts in Karabakh and East Zangezur, the 'Great Return' program, and ecological approaches attracted attention as a practical model of modern urban planning.
Initiatives such as the 'Baku Call for Breathing Cities', the establishment of the Baku City Award, and the formation of Baku standards for future WUF sessions demonstrate Azerbaijan's contribution to the forum's lasting legacy. The country acts as an initiating partner bringing new approaches to the global urban agenda.
WUF13 strengthened Azerbaijan's international reputation, conveyed post-conflict realities to the world, and enhanced its position in sustainable development, urban planning, and humanitarian cooperation. Baku once again proved to be a reliable dialogue space for discussing global challenges.
