BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 20. A Declaration of
Intent to establish the Climate-Smart Cities Forum has been signed
within the framework of the United Nations Special Programme for
the Economies of Central Asia (SPECA), Trend reports.
The document was signed during the 13th session of the World
Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku by Nurlan Abdrakhim, Deputy Mayor of
Almaty. This step represents a major milestone, officially
confirming Almaty's status among the founding cities of the
forum.
The new initiative aims to strengthen urban adaptation to
climate change, expand cooperation in energy efficiency, and
advance sustainable urban planning frameworks.
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.
