Baku: The Ministerial Meeting on the New Urban Agenda (NUA) was convened on May 17 in Baku as part of the 13th Session of the UN World Urban Forum (WUF13). Representatives from over 100 countries presented their national statements at this significant event.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Malaysia's Minister of Housing and Local Government and current President of the UN-Habitat Assembly, Nga Kor Ming, emphasized that urban planning in Malaysia is both a policy direction and a national necessity. With over 75% of Malaysia's population residing in urban areas, these regions are central to the national economy. However, rapid urbanization presents challenges, including housing affordability, climate change, and social inclusion.
Anar Guliyev, the National Coordinator for WUF13 and Chairman of the State Committee on Urban Planning and Architecture, highlighted that more than half of Azerbaijan's liberated territories will become green zones. Projects in Garabagh and East Zangezur are aligned with sustainable development principles, emphasizing renewable energy and modern urban planning. Around $14.7 billion has been invested in infrastructure and housing over the past five years, with expectations to reach $18 billion by 2028.
Angola's Minister of Public Works, Urban Planning and Housing, Carlos Alberto Greg³rio dos Santos, remarked on the rapid urbanization faced by Angola due to demographic growth and internal migration. With a population exceeding 36 million, there is increasing pressure on housing, transport, sanitation, and public services.
Czech Republic's Minister of Regional Development, Zuzana Mr¡zov¡, stated that the country consistently implements the New Urban Agenda as a framework for sustainable urban development, focusing on social development, service access, and housing affordability.
Canada's Assistant Deputy Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, Janet Golding, outlined three priorities: accelerating housing construction, promoting inclusive development and partnerships, and building climate-resilient cities. She noted that the World Urban Forum sessions are vital for countries to exchange experiences and identify shared solutions.
Estonia's Deputy Secretary General on Living Environment and Circular Economy, Ivo Jaanisoo, highlighted the measure of successful urban development by whether children can safely walk to school, underscoring Estonia's progress in digital innovation, green transition, and inclusive planning.
The meeting facilitated discussions on global cooperation in urban planning, developing sustainable and inclusive cities, and implementing climate-adapted urban models. Emphasized was the need for accelerating the New Urban Agenda's implementation, introducing innovative approaches, international cooperation, infrastructure modernization, and enhancing social service access. Participants also focused on increasing climate resilience, expanding green infrastructure, improving energy efficiency, and minimizing environmental risks.