On the political and humanitarian agenda of the modern world, Azerbaijan is already one of the important participants not only in the region, but also in the system of international relations as a whole. Having successfully hosted the most prestigious platforms where global challenges are discussed, Azerbaijan today also demonstrates an example of a new model of international cooperation. The growing trust on the UN platform, the historic success of COP29, as well as the holding of the World Urban Forum in Azerbaijan are clear indicators of our country’s diplomatic authority and organizational potential.
During the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) held in Baku, Global Art magazine exclusively spoke with Mr Azer Allahveranov, a deputy of the Milli Majlis of the Republic of Azerbaijan, a well-known public and political figure, about Azerbaijan’s transformation into a venue for international events, the new realities created by COP29, and the future prospects of urbanization processes.
— First of all, we would like to learn your impressions of this magnificent international forum held in Azerbaijan. What do you think is the importance of the event?
— Undoubtedly, we are witnessing an event of great importance and historical significance. The World Urban Forum occupies a special place among global platforms due to its scale, international influence and strategic importance. If it is considered one of the most important international platforms after the UN and COP format events, then the fact that this forum is being held in Azerbaijan sends very serious messages. This shows, first of all, that Azerbaijan is a state that has proven its credibility at the UN level. The fact that Azerbaijan is entrusted with the hosting of such a prestigious event is an indicator of the international community's trust in our country.
Another important point is that Azerbaijan not only holds such events at a high organizational level, but also achieves their conclusion with concrete results. We clearly saw this during COP29, and the world especially appreciated it. It can be said with confidence that the issues discussed at the World Urban Forum and the decisions to be made will form a new vision of global urban planning policy in the future. The discussions held here determine strategic approaches to how not only today's cities, but also the cities of the future will be built.
— After the successful organization of COP29, the holding of this forum draws special attention. What contributions do you think COP29 made to Azerbaijan's international reputation?
— COP29 was a great and rich experience for Azerbaijan. But the issue is not limited to holding the event alone. Azerbaijan became one of the main actors of the global climate agenda within the framework of COP29. During this event, in addition to further strengthening the world's attention to climate change, decisions were made that encouraged more active participation of developed countries in this direction. I can even say with confidence that COP29 was one of the most important turning points in the history of COP.
Because many issues that had been discussed for years before were transformed into real results in a shorter period of time on the Azerbaijani platform. In just 10-11 months, Azerbaijan mobilized organizational resources and effectively established interstate dialogue, achieving positive decisions.
Today, even international experts admit that the level of organization demonstrated in Azerbaijan has formed a very high standard. Even when COP30 was held in Brazil, many participants emphasized that it was extremely difficult to reach the high level set by Azerbaijan.
— Can the World Urban Forum be considered a continuation of COP29?
— Although the topics are different, in a certain sense there are common strategic approaches that unite them. COP29 mainly covered climate change issues, while the World Urban Forum focuses on urbanization and urban development processes. Today, urbanization is a rapidly developing and irreversible process all over the world. The main issue is to properly manage this process so that it becomes a source of development and prosperity for states.
One of the main issues discussed within the framework of the forum is precisely maintaining balance. Special attention is paid here to how to take into account the interests of various social groups in urban planning policy, how to involve vulnerable groups in this process, and ensuring the participation of all segments of society in decision-making. This shows that the modern urban concept is built not only on architecture, but also on a model of social justice and inclusive development.
— Against the background of all this, can we already say that Azerbaijan has become one of the main platforms for international projects?
— We can say with complete confidence that, yes, Azerbaijan is already becoming one of the important global platforms for the implementation of international projects and has successfully confirmed this status. This is not limited to the areas of climate and urban planning. Azerbaijan has already taken its special place in the system of international relations as a reliable venue for multicultural dialogue platforms, humanitarian forums, international sports competitions, political and diplomatic meetings. One of the most important points is that Azerbaijan plays both the role of host on all these platforms and acts as a country that makes a real contribution to the promotion of global dialogue. This is an indicator of the growing international prestige and strategic vision of our state.
— Thank you very much!
— Thank you!
