Katowice: The 18th European Economic Congress (EEC) convened in Katowice, Poland, drawing significant participation from the Embassy of Azerbaijan in Poland. The congress, a central platform in Central and Eastern Europe, facilitates discussions on key themes shaping the development of the Polish and European economies.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the 2026 congress revolved around the theme 'The Power of Dialogue,' addressing economic security, digital and green transitions, sustainability, innovation, and international cooperation. The event included over 200 panels and numerous business meetings, featuring more than 1,300 speakers and engaging over 13,500 participants, such as ministers, EU lawmakers, and business leaders.

During a special session titled 'Economic Cooperation - Let's Make It Happen Together,' Azerbaijan's Ambassador to Poland, Nargiz Gurbanova, highlighted the potential for expanding bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Poland. She discussed opportunities in trade, investment, industry, transport and logistics, energy, and agriculture.

The ambassador underlined Azerbaijan's strategic role as a transport hub connecting Europe and Asia, with a focus on the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route, also known as the Middle Corridor. She noted Poland's significant position as a logistics center within the European Union.

On energy matters, the ambassador emphasized Azerbaijan's reliability as a partner for Europe, exporting natural gas to 16 countries, including 10 EU member states. She pointed out the expanding cooperation opportunities in renewable energy and green energy corridors.

Investment prospects for Polish companies in Azerbaijan were also addressed, particularly in reconstruction projects, industrial zones, and the Alat Free Economic Zone. The ambassador announced that Azerbaijan will host the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku in May 2026. This event, focusing on sustainable urbanization and inclusive city development, will be the first of its kind in the South Caucasus and Central Asia.

WUF13 is expected to attract over 20,000 participants from 174 countries, including ministers, city leaders, and various sector representatives. The forum will feature sessions, dialogues, and the WUF-Expo, serving as a platform for sharing best practices and innovative solutions. The ambassador invited Polish institutions and experts to participate actively in WUF13.

Additionally, the ambassador met with Marcin Krupa, Mayor of Katowice, to discuss cooperation and sustainable development. Krupa, the host of WUF11 in 2022, was invited to participate in WUF13.