WUF13

WUF13

Committee chairman: Expanding access to housing cannot be considered separately from quality urban planning issues

Anar Guliyev, Chairman of the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture of the Republic of Azerbaijan and National Coordinator for WUF13

20 May 2026 12:42 (UTC +04:00)

"Central and Western Asia are increasingly becoming important driving forces of economic development, innovation, connectivity, and regional cooperation," said Anar Guliyev, Chairman of the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture of the Republic of Azerbaijan and National Coordinator for WUF13, during the session titled “Special Forum of Cities: Housing Solutions for an Inclusive and Sustainable Urban Future” held within the framework of WUF13, APA reports.

He noted that cities are facing growing demands related to affordable housing, sustainable infrastructure, efficient public services, and sustainable land management.

“Many residential buildings across the region were constructed before the introduction of modern energy efficiency and seismic standards. Climate-related risks are intensifying, while urban populations continue to grow. These challenges are common for our region, just as the opportunities are shared,” he said.

Anar Guliyev stated that the establishment of the SPECA Cities Forum within the framework of COP29 demonstrated a shared vision for stronger urban cooperation in the region.

“The SPECA Cities Forum is not merely an institutional mechanism, but also a platform for solidarity, partnership, and practical cooperation. It is built on the understanding that a sustainable urban future is only possible through dialogue, exchange of experience, and coordinated action. Today’s discussions are dedicated to interconnected priorities that are highly relevant for all our cities: affordable housing in the context of rapid urbanization, climate resilience and energy efficiency in the housing sector, as well as ‘smart city’ approaches in housing governance. These issues are closely interconnected. Expanding access to housing cannot be considered separately from climate adaptation, energy efficiency, urban mobility, digital governance, and quality urban planning,” he emphasized.

Gunay Elshan