Baku: Ambassador of Bulgaria to Azerbaijan Rouslan Stoyanov emphasized that the renovation of Bulgaria's housing stock remains a priority through large-scale energy efficiency programs. This initiative aims to reduce energy poverty and enhance living standards across the nation. His remarks were made during the 13th Session of the UN World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the Ambassador highlighted that under Bulgaria's national energy efficiency programme, approximately 2,000 multi-apartment residential buildings have been modernized. This modernization has improved living conditions in over 130,000 apartments. He noted that ongoing efforts are being made under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan.

The Ambassador pointed out that investments in the housing sector are crucial for urban transformation and enhancing social resilience. Despite the progress, Bulgaria continues to encounter challenges like overcrowding, energy poverty, and limited housing opportunities for vulnerable groups.

In response to these challenges, Ambassador Stoyanov mentioned that Bulgaria is developing long-term policies. These include a national building renovation plan extending to 2050 and updated housing strategies. There is a particular focus on supporting energy-poor households and expanding access to financing and targeted programmes.

Looking forward, the Ambassador identified key priorities for the next decade. These include accelerating renovation through sustainable financial instruments, integrating affordable housing into urban policy, and strengthening the connection between housing and urban planning. Enhancing the capacity of local authorities is also a significant focus.

He concluded by stating that achieving the goals of the New Urban Agenda requires keeping housing policy at the forefront of global priorities, as it is essential for social resilience, economic growth, and climate change mitigation.