Baku:Azerbaijan's Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Elvin Ashrafzade, addressed a joint general discussion at the UN, focusing on the Baku Call to Action from the thirteenth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13). The forum, co-organized by Azerbaijan and UN-Habitat, revolved around the theme of 'Housing the world safe and resilient cities and communities,' attracting participants from 176 countries to discuss the global housing crisis and urban policy.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Ashrafzade emphasized Azerbaijan's role as co-chair of the Open-Ended Intergovernmental Expert Working Group on Adequate Housing for All. The nation prioritizes adequate, affordable, and sustainable housing as crucial for inclusive urban development and achieving Sustainable Development Goal 11.

Azerbaijan has declared 2026 as the Year of Urban Planning and Architecture, underlining its dedication to modern and sustainable urban development. This initiative is part of the country's efforts to advance integrated urban planning and build resilient communities, especially in territories liberated from occupation.

Ashrafzade further expressed Azerbaijan's support for the General Assembly's Political Declaration aimed at renewing commitment and accelerating the implementation of the New Urban Agenda. This declaration seeks to convert global commitments into practical, actionable solutions at both national and local levels.