BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 20. Azerbaijan and Kenya
have signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in urban
planning and sustainable development during the 13th session of the
World Urban Forum (WUF13), the document was signed by Anar Guliyev
and Ellis Wahome, Trend
reports.
The memorandum is aimed at expanding bilateral cooperation in
integrated urban and territorial planning, sustainable
urbanization, architecture, housing policy, and modern urban
development strategies.
The agreement also предусматривает cooperation in land use
planning, the exchange of expertise in urban management, and the
promotion of smart and sustainable city solutions. The sides
additionally agreed to strengthen collaboration within
international initiatives and global urban development
platforms.
Officials said the signing reflects the mutual interest of both
countries in developing long-term cooperation, sharing best
practices, and implementing joint projects related to sustainable
urbanization, territorial planning, and modern urban
infrastructure.
The meeting was also attended by Sultan Hajiyev.
As part of the visit, the Kenyan delegation toured the
Azerbaijan Pavilion at the WUF13 Urban Expo, where they were
introduced to the country’s approaches to sustainable urban
development.
The pavilion showcased restoration and reconstruction projects
being implemented under Azerbaijan’s Great Return Program in the
liberated territories, along with “Smart City” and “Smart Village”
initiatives and programs focused on preserving cultural
heritage.
Today marks the fourth day of WUF13 in Baku.
The first day included a ministerial meeting dedicated to the
New Urban Agenda, a ministerial roundtable, assemblies for women
and civil society, business sessions, and discussions on urban
prosperity. An official ceremony marking the raising of the UN and
Azerbaijani flags also took place.
The second day stood out for the inaugural Leaders' Summit,
featuring high-level discussions on the global housing crisis,
urbanization policy, and urban resilience. Concurrently, the
opening of the Mexico City pavilion took place, serving as a
significant platform for expanding cooperation with the Latin
American region and preparing for WUF14.
The third day of WUF13 featured a comprehensive program of
events covering the global housing crisis, the formation of safe
and inclusive cities, climate resilience, artificial intelligence
and urban governance, green urbanization, social equity, and
sustainable transport.
WUF13, which has attracted more than 40,000 registered
participants from 182 countries, will continue until May 22. Held
under the theme “Housing the world: Safe and resilient cities and
communities,” the forum brings together governments, international
organizations, experts, and representatives of civil society to
strengthen global cooperation in the field of sustainable urban
development.
