Baku: 'We were presented with Azerbaijan's reconstruction plans. Our aim was to ensure safe and dignified living conditions for returning residents. We started our work with clear objectives and plans, and through substantial effort, dedication, and commitment, we have turned them into reality, as can currently be seen here in Azerbaijan. Our services include strategic master planning, zoning of territories, and detailed design work,' said Dunja Kov¡ri-Binggeli, a founding partner of 'sa_partners' - an international urban design and planning firm in Zurich, in her remarks at an event titled 'Building Back Better: How Urban Reconstruction Created an Innovation Lab for Urban Transformation in Azerbaijan' held as part of WUF13.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, extensive areas of East Zangezur and Garabagh had been devastated. Consequently, the country faced large-scale urban planning tasks that are truly unique in both scale and complexity. Dunja Kov¡ri-Binggeli underscored the significance of these efforts and emphasized the transformative impact of the reconstruction work undertaken by her firm and collaborators.

The event brought together experts and stakeholders to discuss the challenges and achievements in urban reconstruction in Azerbaijan. The focus was on creating innovative and sustainable urban solutions that meet the needs of returning residents and support long-term development in the region.