BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 18. Providing housing for
all and building safe, sustainable cities and communities is one of
the most pressing global challenges today, the President of
Mauritius said at the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, Trend reports.
Speaking at the Leaders’ Summit held within the framework of the
13th session of the World Urban Forum, President Daramber Gokhool
said WUF13 serves as an important platform for shaping the future
agenda of sustainable urban planning and development.
He noted that cities around the world are expanding at an
unprecedented pace, making housing policy and urban planning
central pillars of national development strategies.
Gokhool said Mauritius, as a small island developing state,
faces challenges including limited land resources, rising sea
levels, environmental risks and urbanization pressures.
He stressed that the country is implementing measures in line
with the UN-Habitat framework and the New Urban Agenda to balance
economic growth, environmental sustainability and social
equity.
“These measures include expanding access to safe, affordable and
environmentally friendly housing for low- and middle-income
families,” he said.
Gokhool added that Mauritius’ national development strategy
provides a framework for transitioning toward more sustainable
urban models, including balanced territorial development, efficient
land use, improved transport connectivity and strengthened climate
resilience.
He also highlighted Azerbaijan’s urban development experience,
particularly the White City project and the master plan for the
city of Aghdam in Karabakh, as notable examples of sustainable
urban planning.
“I would like to note the importance of initiatives such as the
White City project and the master plan of Aghdam in Karabakh,” he
said.
