BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 20. Integrating climate
factors into urban planning is becoming increasingly important,
Umayra Taghiyeva, Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources
of Azerbaijan, said, Trend reports.


She made the statement during a session titled “Stories from
Climate Frontlines” as part of WUF13.


“Today, the world is facing a triple planetary crisis: climate
change, biodiversity loss, and environmental pollution, which
together threaten ecosystems, human well-being, sustainable
development, and the resilience of our cities and communities,” she
said.


Taghieva noted that environmental problems vary across different
regions of the world, but they are caused by the same underlying
pressures — the gap between economic development and ecological
balance.


“The most severe consequences are felt in vulnerable communities
in developing countries, whose experiences remind us that climate
action must always remain people-centered and inclusive.
Integrating climate considerations into urban planning is becoming
increasingly important for cities, which are key players in this
struggle,” the deputy minister said.


According to her, sustainable urban development begins with a
national vision and long-term political commitments, including
closer global cooperation.







Today, the fourth day of the WUF13 conference is taking place 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.