Baku: An international online event dedicated to WUF13 was held on January 30, bringing together 32 parliamentarians from 30 countries to discuss the 'Role of Parliament in Advancing Resilient Cities and Sustainable Urban Development.' The event aimed to brief participants on WUF13's main objectives and program while encouraging parliamentary involvement in the forum.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the event was organized by Parvana Valiyeva, a member of the Milli Majlis of the Republic of Azerbaijan, and the Global Changemakers Academy for Parliamentarians (GCAP), in collaboration with the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture. Representatives from UN-Habitat and other specialized agencies also attended.

Parvana Valiyeva, in her opening remarks, thanked international counterparts for their support and participation in the event dedicated to WUF13. Hon. Cozier Frederick, the Minister of the Environment, Rural Modernisation, and Kalinago Upliftment of the Commonwealth of Dominica, was a special guest at the opening session. He shared insights into the urbanization experiences of small island states, highlighting challenges and measures taken by Dominica's Parliament regarding building standards, zoning regulations, and planning systems.

During the event, the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture provided an overview of WUF13, detailing Azerbaijan's initiatives within the forum. Notably, a summit featuring heads of state and government will be organized for the first time at the World Urban Forum. The significance of parliamentary diplomacy in urban development forums was also highlighted.

Foreign parliamentarians praised Azerbaijan for hosting WUF13 and its urban development experience. They submitted a joint appeal to the WUF13 National Coordinator, acknowledging the critical role of cities in addressing global challenges. The appeal emphasized the need for coordinated political leadership, legislative action, and investment in urban development and expressed support for Azerbaijan as the host of WUF13, commending its commitment to global dialogue on sustainable urbanization.