Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev Officially Opens 13th World Urban Forum in Baku
Azerbaijan Plays Strategic Role in Global Urban Development Dynamics
On May 13, Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev officially opened the 13th World Urban Forum (WUF13), held in Baku from May 17 to 22, 2026. The event highlights Azerbaijan's strategic role in global urban development dynamics, emphasizing a model that balances modernization and heritage preservation.
Over 45,000 Participants from 182 Countries Attend the Forum
According to the head of state, more than 45,000 participants from 182 countries have registered for this edition, making it one of the largest events held in the country since the pandemic. The president presented the forum as a major opportunity to showcase Azerbaijan to international visitors and demonstrate the ongoing urban transformations.
Baku: A Symbol of Balance Between Heritage and Modernity
In his opening speech, Ilham Aliyev described Baku as a city where different historical and architectural layers coexist, illustrating the country's identity situated between Europe and Asia. He highlighted the coexistence between the old fortified city, 19th-century buildings designed by European architects, and modern urban developments along the Caspian Sea coast. This architectural superposition reflects the capital's ability to reconcile heritage preservation and contemporary urbanization.
Urban Planning and Development
The president emphasized the need for rigorous urban planning, stating that this approach is a national priority. He also recalled declaring 2026 as the "Year of Urban Planning," highlighting the importance of this field in the country's public policy. Ilham Aliyev stressed the importance of cooperation with UN-Habitat in organizing WUF13, highlighting the agency's role in strengthening dialogue on sustainable urban development.
National Initiatives and Cooperation with UN-Habitat
The president praised the cooperation with UN-Habitat in organizing WUF13, emphasizing the agency's role in reinforcing dialogue on sustainable urban development. He recalled that since 2022, several national urban forums have been held in Azerbaijan in cities such as Aghdam, Zangilan, and Khankendi, as part of a strategy to strengthen urban planning and structure territorial development policies.
Urban Development, Security, and Long-Term Vision
The head of state emphasized the need to balance rapid development and heritage preservation. Comparing this approach to a high-stakes car racing requiring precision and control, he stressed that urban policies must be both ambitious and prudent. He also mentioned economic priorities related to reconstruction, including the creation of industrial zones and jobs in developing territories to support the gradual return of populations.
Baku Takes Center Stage in Global Urban Debate
With the hosting of WUF13, Baku positions itself as a key player in the global debate on urbanization. The president's speech aimed to inscribe Azerbaijan in a global dynamic where urban transformation relies on modernizing infrastructure, valuing heritage, and territorial reconstruction.
The Event Continues Until May 22
The event, which brings together policymakers, urban experts, and international institutions, will continue until May 22, with the goal of strengthening global cooperation around challenges related to housing, urban planning, and sustainable cities.
