13th World Urban Forum opens in Azerbaijan

TDT | Manama

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The Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Jassem Mohamed Albudaiwi, took part on Sunday in the official opening of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum, held in the Azerbaijani capital Baku.

The event was inaugurated under the patronage of President Ilham Aliyev, following an official invitation from the head of state. The forum convenes under the theme “Housing the World: Safe and Resilient Cities and Communities,” bringing together heads of state, ministers, senior officials, and private sector representatives from around the world.

In his remarks on the occasion, Albudaiwi said the GCC’s participation reflects the bloc’s strong commitment to advancing sustainable urban development and building safe, resilient cities capable of responding to future challenges.

He highlighted that GCC member states have made “qualitative leaps” in urban planning, housing, and smart infrastructure, driven by ambitious national visions aimed at improving quality of life and strengthening sustainability and innovation.

Albudaiwi also praised Azerbaijan for hosting and organizing the major international United Nations forum, describing it as an important global platform for exchanging expertise and shaping the future of urban development.