Baku, May 19, AZERTAC

For the third consecutive day, the 13th Session of the UN World Urban Forum (WUF13) held in Baku remains one of the central topics on the global media agenda.

Influential media organizations representing various regions of the world view this prestigious event hosted by Azerbaijan as a global dialogue platform for international urbanization, sustainable development, and the cities of the future. Numerous reports in the foreign press have placed special emphasis on Baku’s high-level organization, Azerbaijani hospitality, the views expressed by President Ilham Aliyev during his speech at the opening ceremony, as well as the successful implementation of the country's “smart city” and “green zone” concepts. It was noted that the discussions conducted within the framework of the forum regarding urban planning, housing policy, digital transformation, and climate challenges demonstrate Azerbaijan's emergence as an important hub for international cooperation and innovative approaches in this field. Furthermore, it was brought to the attention of audiences that organizing WUF13 in Baku confirms the growth of our country’s global prestige and further strengthens Azerbaijan's position worldwide as a reliable partner that puts forward strategic initiatives.

Reports broadcast and published by Türkiye's “TRT Haber”, “Milliyet”, “Hibya”, “T24”, “DHA”, “Günebakış”, and other media organizations emphasized that the brotherly country is participating in the event with a broad delegation, noting that the Azerbaijani-Turkish brotherhood is also reflected through joint projects in the field of urban planning. The reports covered in detail the successful implementation of President Ilham Aliyev’s “Smart City” and “Green Zone” visions in the liberated territories. Turkish press drew special attention to Azerbaijan’s achievement of a significant global success at this session and to the country’s high-level organizational execution. At the same time, readers were provided with detailed information on the significance of the Azerbaijan-hosted WUF13 for the Turkic world and Baku's exemplary organization.

Pakistani media, which has allocated extensive coverage to the session since day one, widely covered the active participation of Maryam Nawaz, Chief Minister of the Punjab Province, in the Baku discussions and highlighted Azerbaijan's leadership in the field of sustainable development. Reports in the brotherly country's “DND”, “Radio Pakistan”, “Dawn”, “AAJ TV”, “The Diplomatic Insight”, “Dunya News”, “Pakistan Today”, and other publications stated that the organization of WUF13 in Baku is a manifestation of the strategic vision of the President of Azerbaijan and that our country has welcomed international delegations at the highest level. Concurrently, it underscored the successful presentation of Pakistan's housing development projects in Baku and Azerbaijan's exemplary hosting of this prestigious event, with the high level of hospitality shown to the Pakistani delegation being highly praised as a vivid example of brotherly relations.

Publications in Saudi Arabia, including “Al Yaum”, “Ajel”, “Al Hadath”, “Sabq”, “Al Bilad”, “Al Jazirah”, “Al Madina”, “Saudi Gazette”, and “Eye of Riyadh”, noted that the Kingdom is represented at WUF13 by 20 entities. The reports brought Azerbaijan's high-level hospitality and organization to the forefront, stating that the event serves as an excellent opportunity for the exchange of experience between the two nations. The Baku session was brought to the readers' attention as a global turning point in the field of housing policy, with its priorities resonating with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.

The United Arab Emirates' “Voice of Emirates”, “Al-Ain”, “Al-Watan”, and “Menafn”; Kuwait's “Q8 Press”; Bahrain's “News of Bahrain”; Qatar's “Mshireb”, “Al Raya”, and “QNA”; as well as the official portal of the Secretariat General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC-SG.org) and others emphasized the importance of the discussions and proposed solutions regarding the housing crisis at WUF13 in terms of addressing pressing issues in this sector, noting the active participation of the Gulf States in the event. The news pointed out that Azerbaijan organized this session of international status at a high level and introduced new approaches to global housing policy. At the same time, Baku's transformation into a hub for global dialogue on urban planning was highly commended.

Kazakhstan's “Almaty TV”, “Vecher.kz”, “Kursiv.media”, “Kazinform”, “Astana Times”, “Smi24.kz”, and “KzVesti” media outlets extensively covered Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov's speech in Baku and the brotherly country's support for Azerbaijan's “Green City” strategy. The reports placed special emphasis on the international interest garnered by the “Smart City” concept applied in the liberated territories of Azerbaijan. Moreover, the Baku session was assessed as an important milestone in solving regional and global urban planning issues, with the event opening new horizons for regional cooperation. Concurrently, it was brought to attention that Kazakhstan presented its artificial-intelligence-based urban planning models in Baku and that Azerbaijan's organization was outstanding.

Uzbekistan's “Uzdaily”, “Zamin.uz”, and “Eurasian Star” publications also provided broad coverage of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's participation in the forum and the global initiatives he put forward regarding sustainable urban development. The reports highlighted the shared visions and strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan in the field of urban planning, emphasizing the significance of choosing Baku as the most suitable venue for this prestigious event.

Kyrgyzstan's “Reporter.kg”, “Kabar.kg”, “Sputnik.kg”, “24.kg”, “7tv.kg”, “Kg.akipress.org”, and “Jambylinfo.kz” media organizations dedicated extensive coverage to President Sadyr Japarov's speech in Baku and his proposal to establish the International Association of Mountain Cities. The reports noted with satisfaction Azerbaijan's support for this proposal and the high-level organization of the event. Azerbaijan's immense experience in the field of organization was highly praised across Kyrgyz media.

The leading media outlets of Georgia have published a series of articles on Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s speech at WUF13, his meeting with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, and the bilateral documents signed between the two countries. Portals such as “Interpressnews.ge”, “Bpn.ge”, “Kvira.ge”, “Exclusivenews.ge”, “Mix.metronome.ge”, “Palitranews.ge”, “Timer.ge”, “Newshub.ge”, “Aktual.ge”, “Qafqazturk.com”, “24news.ge”, “Interpress.ge”, and “Realnews.ge”, alongside broadcasting and media structures like “1tv.ge”, “Rustavi 2”, “Georgia Today”, “Civil.ge”, and “Imedi News”, shared reports highlighting the significance of WUF13, the meeting between the Georgian Prime Minister and President Ilham Aliyev, the importance of the signed agreements and protocols, and statements made by Georgian ministers. The articles specifically underscored Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze’s gratitude to Azerbaijan for its hospitality in Baku and the high-level organization of the session. It was emphasized that Kobakhidze evaluated the Baku platform as a pivotal regional hub for discussing global challenges, including climate change, social cohesion, and urban planning.

This prestigious event also remains under the spotlight of the press in distant Latin American countries. Reports published in Mexican outlets such as “Candelero”, “Proceso”, “Mundo de Mujeres”, “La Octava”, “MVS Noticias”, “El Universal”, “Heraldo de Mexico”, “Imagen Radio”, “Consulta Monterrey”, and “Publimetro” gave extensive coverage to Clara Brugada, Mayor of Mexico City, inaugurating the Mexican pavilion within the framework of the session and highly commending Azerbaijan's urban planning model. The news highlighted Azerbaijan's international efforts toward housing rights and sustainable urban environments, emphasizing that Baku's selection as the host for this event was no coincidence. Mexican readers were provided with detailed information regarding the urban planning models presented in Baku and the unique dialogue environment fostered by Azerbaijan.

Argentina's “Infoquilmes”, “El Sol Noticias”, and “News Digitales” extensively covered their national delegation’s participation in WUF13 and their presentations on sustainable urban development. The articles stated that this Azerbaijan-hosted platform opens up broad opportunities for international cooperation. The reports also noted Baku's modern appearance, the international attention drawn to Azerbaijan's achievements in urban planning, and the successful organization of the forum.

Brazilian media outlets, including “Atual MT”, “Mato Grosso 24 Horas”, “Plantao News”, “Folha Estado”, and “Diplomacia Business”, wrote about the country's extensive representation at the Baku forum and the Brazilian delegation's active exchange of experience with the Azerbaijani side in the field of urban development. The reports emphasized the significance of WUF13 for the countries of the Global South and commended the steps taken by Azerbaijan toward inclusive urban planning. Special note was made of how Baku’s modern infrastructure perfectly aligns with the spirit of the session.

The media of China, a country that has amazed the world in recent years with its dynamic development and latest scientific and technological achievements, also dedicated special attention to the event in Baku. The country's media structures, such as “Xinhua”, “Sohu”, “Phoenix News”, “Sina”, “Guilin Life”, “Guangming Daily”, “163.com”, “China.org.cn”, “People.com.cn”, and “Huarenshijie”, widely covered WUF13 hosted by Baku as a landmark event shaping the future of global urbanization. The articles provided an in-depth analysis of Azerbaijan's achievements in digitalization and green technologies, as well as the strategic points touched upon by President Ilham Aliyev during the opening ceremony. Characterizing Baku’s hosting as flawless and high-level, the Chinese publications stated that Azerbaijan has made a vital contribution to global urban development and to solving the housing problems of world cities.

Japan's “47 News”, “The Miyanichi”, and “AFPBB” publications covered the importance of WUF13 in relation to global sustainability and digital urban planning. The published information noted Azerbaijan’s integration of technological solutions into the urban environment and the favorable conditions Baku created for the event participants. The active engagement of the Japanese delegation and its discussions with Azerbaijani and international partners were kept in sharp focus.

South Korean publications, including “Acrofan”, highlighted the Baku Session’s role in the application of “smart city” technologies. Azerbaijan's rapid development in this field and its organizational execution of the event were highly praised by South Korean experts. The articles noted Baku's significance as a hub for future urban planning.

India's media organs, such as “India News”, “Bhaskar Hindi”, “IANS Live”, and “PSU Connect”, reported on their country showcasing its changing urban landscape at the Baku session and noted that Azerbaijan provided this valuable opportunity. The news emphasized Azerbaijan's hospitality and the momentum the forum has given to global dialogue in the field of urban planning, stating that WUF13 has built new bridges of cooperation among world cities.

Malaysia's “Malay Mail”, “Business Today”, and “Malaysia Gazette” media outlets focused on their country presenting its regional urban planning agenda in Baku and strengthening its ties with UN-Habitat. The reports stated that Azerbaijan’s hosting was significant for Malaysia in terms of sharing "smart city" strategies, while highly praising the logistical and organizational capabilities presented by Baku.

Nepal's “Taksar News” and “Triveni Times” publications also emphasized that WUF13 is a crucial platform for solving global urban planning problems. The reports specifically highlighted Nepal's sustainable urban development targets and Azerbaijan’s highly professional organization of this prestigious event. It was stated that the session created a unique opportunity for inter-country exchange of experience in green urban planning and the fight against climate change.

WUF13 hosted by Baku is likewise at the center of attention for the European media. Switzerland's “Swisslatin.ch” wrote about the international significance of the event held in Baku against the backdrop of the global housing shortage. The report stated that the Azerbaijani capital has transformed into the primary global hub where the most advanced urban planning solutions are discussed, highly praising the organizational level of our country and the rich agenda of the forum.

The Hungarian publication “2022plusz.hu” drew attention to the warnings raised at the Baku forum regarding the global housing crisis. The article evaluated Azerbaijan’s ability to bring together world leaders and experts to discuss this crucial problem as a major success. The importance of the session in terms of improving the quality of life for urban populations was emphasized.

Serbia's “Biznis.rs” and “Newsmax Balkans” featured views regarding President Aleksandar Vučić’s successful representation of his country in Baku and Azerbaijan's capacity to organize this prestigious event. The news pointed out that Aleksandar Vučić highly commended Azerbaijan's achievements in urban development and stressed the importance of the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Poland's “WNP.pl” and “PAP MediaRoom” publications dedicated extensive coverage specifically to the official opening ceremony of WUF13 and President Ilham Aliyev’s strategic visions regarding the future of cities. The reports emphasized that choosing Baku as the host for this prestigious event is an indicator of Azerbaijan's global prestige. At the same time, the meetings conducted by Polish companies in Baku for the sake of global sustainability, as well as the cooperation of technology giants like “Bluetti” with UN-Habitat in the field of sustainable energy, were brought to the forefront.

Albania's “Shqiptarja” and “RTSH” publications featured coverage on the speech delivered by their country's Deputy Prime Minister, Albana Koçiu, at the WUF13 Leaders' Summit, alongside her views on how Azerbaijan is transforming cities through strategic investments. The news noted that Azerbaijan's successes in urban planning represent an interesting experience for Albania, while highly praising the forum's organization and its broad assembly of participants.

Bulgaria's “BNR News” and the Greek press reported that critical global calls to action were made at the World Urban Forum held in Baku. The news emphasized Azerbaijan's high-level hosting of this prestigious event and its regional leadership role.

Russia's “Moscow-Baku.ru” and “Vesti Kavkaza” publications shed light on the discussions that took place on the third day of WUF13 in Baku and on the theme of Azerbaijan transforming into a center for international cooperation. The reports stated that the session's rich program and the restoration of Azerbaijan's liberated territories aroused great interest among the participants.

News featured in Belarus's “ONT”, “Bykhov.gov.by”, and “Belta” press organs stated that the event hosted by Azerbaijan serves as a platform for addressing modern urban planning problems. The reports touched upon the Belarusian delegation's interest in Azerbaijan's experience in this field, as well as opportunities for cooperation with Azerbaijan in the area of joint urban planning solutions.

WUF13 has also been widely covered across the media of African nations. South Africa's “Southern Africa Eye News” and “Central News” reported on Minister Thembisile Simelane’s meetings within the framework of WUF13 and Azerbaijan’s high organizational capabilities. The information stated that Baku has increased its weight in global governance through this event and has taken crucial steps toward sustainable urban planning. Azerbaijan’s hospitality, the high technical equipment of the event, and our country’s contributions to sustainable urbanization were specially emphasized in the reports.

Kenya's “The Standard”, “Nation Africa”, and “Eastleigh Voice” publications reflected President William Ruto's active participation in WUF13 and his calls regarding Africa's urban planning challenges. The articles noted that this event hosted by Baku is invaluable for African countries in terms of studying new urban governance models. It was brought to attention that Azerbaijan has made a significant contribution to the global urban planning dialogue through this session.

Angola's “Jornal de Angola”, “Zango.co.ao”, “Gira Noticias”, and “O Pais” press organs also shed light on the Angolan pavilion being received with great interest within the framework of WUF13 and covered the opportunities for cooperation with UN-Habitat. The reports noted that the capital of Azerbaijan created an excellent dialogue environment for urban planning specialists coming from all over the world, emphasizing the importance of the event for Angola in terms of gaining new experiences.

Libya's “Libya Alyoum”, “Al Wasat”, and other publications emphasized that the session hosted by Azerbaijan served as an important center for dialogue and exchange of experience regarding the restoration of war-torn areas. Concurrently, it was noted that the reconstruction work carried out by Azerbaijan in the liberated territories could serve as a model for Libya.

WUF13 was also widely covered by leading publications of other nations, including Tajikistan's “Khovar” and “Tajikistan News”, Syria's “SANA”, Jordan's “Al-Bayader”, Somalia's “Goobjoog”, and Cuba's “Cuba Si”.