BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 18. This forum, organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Program (UN-Habitat), is an important platform for sharing experiences and developing a shared vision for building safer, more inclusive communities, Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze said at the Leaders' Summit held within the framework of the Thirteenth Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13), Trend reports.
The Prime Minister of Georgia noted that today cities are at the center of all global challenges, such as climate resilience, housing security, sustainable development, and social solidarity.
"How we plan, develop, and protect cities will determine the stability, prosperity, and sustainability of our societies for future generations," he explained.
Kobakhidze stressed that, along with the strong economic growth observed in Georgia in recent years, balanced regional development and modern urban planning have become key priorities of this country's national policy.
"Our goal is not only to expand infrastructure and improve the quality of life, but also to ensure that development is sustainable, balanced between regions, and in line with the needs of citizens.
With the support of our international partners, Georgia is currently advancing the national spatial development concept. This important document forms the basis of housing and urban planning policy and serves to ensure balanced and sustainable development in all regions of the country.
"For the effective implementation of these reforms, institutional coordination has been strengthened through a specialized agency within the central government system. This mechanism supports long-term planning and ensures that urban transformation is implemented on the basis of strategic vision, sustainability, and effective management," he added.
WUF13 is taking place in Baku from May 17 to 22 within the framework of cooperation between the UN-Habitat program and the Government of Azerbaijan.
The event's program brings together various stakeholders and representatives of like-minded groups to discuss one of the most pressing global challenges – the issue of housing provision.
Dedicated to the theme "Housing the World: Safe and Resilient Cities and Communities," WUF13 gathers national governments from around the world, as well as communities, professionals, and partners to exchange views, shape policy approaches, and accelerate action toward solutions in sustainable urban development.
The program provides an opportunity for high-level discussions through practical, solution-oriented platforms and interactive meeting formats, ensuring that global policy is anchored in local experience.
