Baku: Today, Baku serves as a platform for global cooperation, emphasized Aygun Aliyeva, Chairperson of the Board of the NGO Agency, during her speech at the inaugural General Assembly of the Global South NGO Platform (GSNP). She underscored the importance of listening to and respecting the views of the Global South, advocating for these perspectives to be fairly represented in shaping the future.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Aliyeva remarked on Azerbaijan's historical role as a crossroads for various peoples, cultures, and destinies. She highlighted that Baku continues this mission today by fostering global dialogue and cooperation. The upcoming World Urban Forum 13 (WUF13), to be hosted by Azerbaijan, is a testament to this ongoing commitment. Aliyeva noted the significance of the NGO Agency's involvement in the Organizing Committee and the concurrent General Assembly of the Global South NGO Platform as part of Baku Urban Week. This reflects the growing recognition of civil society organizations as key partners in shaping the international agenda.

Aliyeva also pointed out a historic first for the World Urban Forum, where Global South NGOs have collectively secured a unified pavilion. The United Nations has allocated a special pavilion space for them, highlighting the increasing importance and influence of these organizations in global discussions.