Baku: Resolving urban problems requires strengthening international cooperation, Mohamed Younis al-Menfi, President of the Presidential Council of the State of Libya, said during the Leaders' Session within the framework of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) held in Baku, APA reports.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the theme of this year's forum is 'Housing the World: Safe and Sustainable Cities and Communities.' This theme serves as a global call to reconsider the future of cities and ensure people's right to safe and sustainable housing. The world currently faces a housing crisis impacting billions of people and exacerbating social inequality. Challenges such as climate change, rapid urbanization, migration, and forced displacement are intensifying these issues, making housing a crucial pillar of stability, development, and public security. In Libya, efforts are being made to build resilient and inclusive cities through balanced urban development policies, sustainable urban planning, and infrastructure improvements. Emphasis is also placed on strengthening local governance, restoration, and reconstruction processes, and creating urban communities that maintain national identity while embracing modern development.
Mohamed Younis al-Menfi emphasized the need for international cooperation, knowledge transfer, and fair financial mechanisms to tackle urban challenges effectively. This strategy aims to support the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and the New Urban Agenda. Libya has experienced significant changes in various regions, attributed to stability in the country, and remains committed to international efforts for building sustainable cities resilient to climate and economic crises.
Furthermore, the President highlighted Libya's architectural heritage and the emergence of modern buildings. He expressed gratitude to the Republic of Azerbaijan and UN-Habitat for organizing the forum, hoping the event's outcomes lead to practical steps for a just, sustainable future, with a focus on knowledge transfer and experience exchange.