Baku: There is no other country besides Azerbaijan that is rebuilding nearly 9 cities and more than 300 villages and settlements using its own national and financial resources, according to Hikmat Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration, as reported by APA.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Hajiyev highlighted that Azerbaijan has become a significant venue for international events, such as hosting COP29, a major event within the United Nations framework. The upcoming World Urban Forum in Azerbaijan further underscores the trust placed in the country by the international community and the UN family. Hajiyev emphasized that not all countries are equipped to host such large-scale events due to factors like security and organizational capacity, but Azerbaijan's preparedness has led to its selection for these prestigious gatherings.
Hajiyev further mentioned that the World Urban Forum is the second largest event on the UN scale after COP29, marking a significant achievement for Azerbaijan. He referenced the rich urban planning culture of Azerbaijan, with cities like Gabala and Nakhchivan dating back to ancient times. Modern urban development in Azerbaijan continues to preserve historical heritage, exemplified by Baku's inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Cities in other regions of Azerbaijan also hold particular importance in this regard.
The rebuilding of cities and settlements in a post-conflict period is noteworthy, with Azerbaijan's efforts being unique, according to Mr. President. Hajiyev noted the settlement and housing issues faced by refugees and internally displaced persons due to Armenia's occupation against Azerbaijan in the early 1990s. The Azerbaijani state rapidly improved living conditions, transitioning people from tents to residential houses and apartments. This transformation illustrates Azerbaijan's role as a crucial platform for addressing global challenges, with the World Urban Forum contributing to this objective.