Baku: The Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), Anacl¡udia Rossbach, praised the Global Baku Forum as a significant platform for international dialogue during her remarks at the 13th session's opening ceremony. Rossbach highlighted the forum's evolution into a prominent space for leaders and thinkers to engage in open discussions about the state of the world and the future of multilateralism, especially amidst current geopolitical tensions and various overlapping crises.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Rossbach noted the international attention garnered by the current Global Baku Forum and applauded Azerbaijan's role in hosting COP29, an event aimed at uniting global efforts to advance climate ambitions and financing. She further emphasized Baku's growing importance as a host for both the COP and the World Urban Forum, which underscores the city's commitment to addressing climate change and shaping the future of urban environments.

Rossbach also commended the Azerbaijani Government's decision to designate 2026 as the 'Year of Urban Planning and Architecture.' She remarked that, in a time when globalization is often scrutinized, this initiative sends a powerful message about Azerbaijan's investment in the quality of its cities and communities, as well as in the professionals who design and manage urban spaces.