Baku: Azerbaijan's Finance Minister Sahil Babayev met with a visiting delegation from the World Bank's Livable Baku project team. The meeting took place on May 21 and focused on discussions related to the key areas of collaboration between the Azerbaijani Government and the World Bank Group as part of the Livable Baku Project, which is currently in the preparation phase.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the discussions emphasized sustainable urban development, ecological resilience, and the promotion of green infrastructure within the country and the region. Minister Babayev highlighted the partnership's significance, stating that it supports Azerbaijan's socio-economic development, deepens institutional reforms, and contributes to the creation of modern and sustainable infrastructure.

Minister Sahil Babayev further explained that the Livable Baku Project holds strategic importance for enhancing Baku's environmental conditions, boosting climate resilience, and facilitating a shift toward a more sustainable urban development model. The project plans to focus on renovating urban infrastructure and public spaces, improving solid household waste management, rehabilitating polluted areas, and strengthening urban governance systems.

He stressed the necessity of implementing the project in a phased and priority-based manner, noting the ongoing preparatory work being done in close coordination with the World Bank. Minister Babayev expressed gratitude for the support provided by the World Bank.

The World Bank delegation acknowledged the ongoing urban planning and climate-oriented reforms in Azerbaijan positively, suggesting that the Livable Baku Project could set a precedent for modern urban development and ecological transformation. The meeting also included discussions on potential cooperation in other infrastructure and social initiatives such as regional road infrastructure and employment support programs.

Both parties highlighted the importance of reinforcing institutional coordination, enhancing technical preparation levels, and ensuring the project's long-term sustainability in its subsequent stages.