Baku: There is no longer a need to cover the entire planet with concrete for civilized living, stated Indira Hajiyeva, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan, during an event at the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) held in Baku. The event, titled 'Youth and Civil Society Leadership in the Development of Sustainable and Inclusive Cities,' focused on the future of urban development.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Hajiyeva emphasized that the stark contrasts between abandoned villages, small towns, and large megacities stem from outdated urban development practices. The deputy minister highlighted the environmental toll of rapid urbanization on megacities and the limited choices available to people due to this traditional approach. She advocated for the use of technology to blur the lines between urban and rural living, suggesting that services like high-speed internet, green energy, and online education can provide urban comforts without the need for widespread concrete development.

Hajiyeva pointed out the importance of decentralizing authority to foster youth and community engagement in local governance. She stressed that young people naturally value mobility, freedom, and flexibility, and should be empowered with real authority and resources to effect change.

Further, Hajiyeva addressed the reconstruction efforts in the liberated territories of Karabakh and East Zangezur, noting that the focus extends beyond rebuilding infrastructure to restoring life and opportunities. She highlighted the revival of hundreds of settlements and the active participation of thousands of residents in these rebuilt areas, emphasizing the need for every war-affected community to have the chance to prosper and grow.