Khankendi: Urbanization pressures are increasing in the surrounding areas of Baku, explained Katja Schafer, regional advisor of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), during her speech at the ‘3rd Azerbaijan National Urban Forum’ held in Khankendi, APA-Economics reports. Schafer stressed the importance of balanced development between urban and rural areas as a fundamental condition for social well-being.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the UN official highlighted that urban planning policies should focus not only on large cities but also on the development of rural and intermediate towns. Schafer pointed out that rural-urban linkages rely on the movement of people, goods, services, and financial flows, ensuring the economic and social integration of regions.

Schafer noted that these mutual flows connect regions and necessitate joint thinking in terms of resource management and infrastructure planning. She stated that the primary goal is to create a balance between urban and rural areas, ensuring equal opportunities for everyone. Schafer also noted that urbanization pressures around Greater Baku are gradually increasing, with land, water, and waste management becoming key indicators of healthy living.

She remarked that highly urbanized areas are turning into pressure points, with issues related to land, water, and waste management directly impacting people’s health. Therefore, Schafer emphasized that urban planning should be considered alongside rural areas. She also mentioned that digitalization and new technologies can bridge socio-economic gaps by increasing employment opportunities for youth.

Schafer concluded by emphasizing that infrastructure is not just about roads, but about connecting people with each other and with available opportunities.