Leaders' Statements at WUF13 (WUF13)

Ladies and gentlemen, the World Urban Forum opening ceremony now continues with the Leaders' Statements segment. We are honored to welcome distinguished heads of state, heads of government, and high-level representatives. To moderate this distinguished segment, we are honored to invite to the stage the Chairman of the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mr. Anar Guleev. Please join us in welcoming him to the stage and our esteemed leaders as they deliver their statements.

Your Excellencies, Heads of states and government, distinguished ministers, esteemed heads of international organizations, honorable mayors, national delegations, ladies and gentlemen, it's a great honor and privilege to welcome you to Baku at the 13th session of the World Urban Forum. Your distinguished presence today reflects the importance of this meeting and our shared commitment to more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities for future generations. The World Urban Forum is more than a conference. It is a key platform for advancing global urban policy, strengthening partnerships, and supporting the implementation of the New Urban Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals. WUF13 takes place at a defining moment for the international community. When cities stand at the center of climate change, housing affordability, migration, infrastructure resilience, and social cohesion. This is why WUF13 matters. This year's Forum marks a historic milestone. For the first time at the World Urban Forum, and at the initiative of the Republic of Azerbaijan, a dedicated leaders' session at the level of heads of state and government has been convened. For Azerbaijan, hosting WUF XIII is both a great honor and a profound responsibility. It reflects our commitment to sustainable urban development, to the reconstruction and revitalization of our cities and communities, and to strengthening international cooperation through dialogue and partnerships. Today's Leaders' Session offers a unique opportunity to shape a common vision for the future of cities and to reinforce global commitment to the implementation of the New Urban Agenda. We thank you for your presence and wish us all a productive and inspiring session. Now, please allow me to proceed with the program for this session. I would like to invite Their Excellencies Heads of State and Government to deliver their statements, and I have the honor to invite His Excellency Shavkat Mirziyoyev, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Your Excellency, the floor is yours.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Dear heads of delegations, ladies and gentlemen, it is my great pleasure to welcome you all to the 13th session of the World Urban Forum, a prestigious platform for discussing the most pressing issues of global development. I would like to express my profound gratitude to His Excellency Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, for the impeccable organization of today's conference in the beautiful city of Baku, the Pearl of Caspian, and for the warm hospitality extended to us. Your Excellency, under your leadership, Azerbaijan is undergoing rapid, large-scale development, especially in the land of Karabakh. In a short space of time, entire cities have been restored in the liberated territories, and new residential complexes and modern infrastructure facilities have been built. Taking this opportunity, I would like to emphasize that Uzbekistan stands ready to make a worthy contribution to such noble endeavors. Distinguished forum participants, the agenda item, Housing the World: Safe and Resilient Cities and Communities, remains as relevant as ever. According to analysis, around 70% of the world's population will reside in cities by the middle of the 21st century. At the same time, urbanization is exacerbating a number of social problems. Today, almost 3 billion people worldwide lack adequate housing. More than 1 billion of them live in informal settlements and slums, while more than 300 million people have no shelter at all. Climate change, a volatile international situation, and economic crisis are generating new waves of global migration, leading to the redistribution of populations among countries and cities. Put it simply, urbanization is becoming a critical factor that directly impacts global stability and security. All of this requires us to take decisive and urgent actions. Dear friends, The issue of sustainable urban development is of strategic importance to the new Uzbekistan. Over the next 15 years, our country's population is expected to grow from 38 million to 50 million, with the urbanization rates rising from 51% to 65%. We believe this presents a unique opportunity to promote balanced regional development and ensure economic growth. To this end, Uzbekistan— the annual number of housing units under construction has increased tenfold over the last 10 years, reaching 238,000 apartments in the year 2025. And we plan to increase this figure by a further 1.5 times by the year 2030. Approximately $2 billion, $2 billion is allocated annually from the budget for programs to provide the population with affordable housing. A special law was adopted in the year 2024 to address the issue of informal settlements, formalizing documents for around 100,000 residences. The share of residences built through renovation is planned to increase from 15 to 60% to upgrade the outdated housing stock. The National Committee for Urbanization has been established to effectively manage these processes. As part of such programs as green space and clean air, we have set a goal to increase the level of urban greening to 30% by the year 2030. When it comes to landscaping the cities and improving the population's lifestyle, we place great reliance on mahalla institution, which is a traditional form of citizen self-governance. Ladies and gentlemen, the new Tashkent megaproject, which is designed to accommodate 2 million people, is a vivid example of our urbanization strategy. It fully incorporates the most advanced modern urban planning solutions, including such principles as green, smart, safe, and 15-minute cities. In the first phase alone, we have launched investment projects here valued at over $25 billion. A presentation of the project concept is taking place at the Urban Expo exhibition, which is being held as part of the forum. Most importantly, similar projects are being developed not only in the capital city but also in all regions of our country as part of the New Uzbekistan Residential Area Initiative. To date, 61 such residential areas have been built, and this number is expected to reach 100 by the year 2030. At this point, I would like to express my gratitude to Ms. Ana Claudia Rosbach, Executive Director of the UN Human Settlements Programme, as well as to the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, and other leading financial institutions for their invaluable support in our urbanization and urban planning initiatives. Distinguished forum participants, I would like to put forward a number of proposals and initiatives on the issues being discussed today. First, creating equal living conditions for the population across all regions requires the harmonious development of small and medium-sized cities. In this regard, I call on partner countries to widely implement the principle of balanced urbanization and urban development. Second, it is imperative that all countries have equal access to the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence and digital transformation in urban governance. To this end, I propose establishing an International Smart and Safe Cities Alliance to facilitate the systematic exchange of technologies, standards, and experiences in this field. Third, it is critical to provide young people and vulnerable segments of the population with quality and affordable housing. And to this end, we are prepared to host an international forum in Samarkand City next year to discuss new approaches in financing and investing in housing construction. Fourth, in light of global climate change, there is an increasing urgency to adopt common principles and standards for creating green cities. To encourage the development of cities in harmony with nature, I propose establishing the UN-Habitat Green City International Award. Number 5, the rising level of urbanization is further enhancing the role of traditional self-governing structures within cities. In this regard, I propose to hold the 15th session of the World Urban Forum in New Tashkent in the year 2030, with the main theme to be the role of the local communities in the sustainable development of cities. Dear participants of the forum, I am confident that today's event will facilitate the finding of joint solutions to mutually beneficial and promising issues, as well as pave the way for new initiatives and make a significant contribution to the development of the field. In conclusion, I wish the Forum great success. I thank you for your attention.

Thank you, Excellency. I have the honor to invite His Excellency William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya. Your Excellency, the floor is yours.

Your Excellencies, distinguished delegates, Ladies and gentlemen, in 2002, there was the first World Urban Forum held in Nairobi, Kenya. Last month, we held Africa Urban Forum again in Nairobi, Kenya. Today, we have come for the 13th World Urban Forum here in Baku, in this great country, and I want to thank His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev for his welcome and his hospitality extended to us. Excellencies, this is a most consequential forum because of the exigencies of housing in almost every country. Statistics show us that 3 billion people suffer from inadequate housing, 1 billion people live in slums, and 300 million people are homeless. These are not cold statistics. These are not numbers. These are people. These are families. These are children. And that is why this meeting in this great city with a great history is important.

Thank you.

Article 25 of the Declaration of Universal Human Rights affirms that housing is a right. And today, as we are in Baku, we have a serious housing challenge globally, and the right under Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is breached. Let me take this opportunity to give you Kenya's perspective. We have 1,100 informal settlements. We have 7 million people living in these informal settlements, and as a result, we took the decision that it was not tenable, it was not right for us to continue in this trajectory, and therefore we took the housing program as a central pillar of our development program. And what did we do? 3 things. Number one, the biggest constraint to housing was availability of land. Number 2, the challenge was cost of construction. And number 3, it was financing housing. How did we solve this problem? Number one, we made it mandatory that all public land be available for housing without charge, free of charge. That removed 30% of the cost of housing. Number 2, we decided that we are going to reduce the cost of construction. How did we do it? 2 things. Number one, we negotiated with professionals— architects, quantity surveyors, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, and all the professionals in those— in that space. Because they were building 10, 20 houses a year, we offered them to build 3,000, 4,000 houses a year, they reduce their cost of supervision and cost— professional costs— from 10% of the cost to 2.5% of the cost. Number 2, we also standardized construction sizes. And we standardized construction materials. Doors became the same size, windows became the same size, and all the other construction materials. And therefore, it became possible to produce these construction items en masse and therefore reduce the cost. And number 3, how did we deal with financing? We decided to take one dedicated financing mechanism. We passed the law, established a housing fund, charged a housing levy, and today we have a dedicated funding mechanism financed by locally mobilized resources to build houses. What is the outcome? I will tell you what the outcome is in Kenya. In the last 3 years, we are building 273,000 housing units. 8,000 keys have been handed over. 55,000 keys will be handed over before the end of this year, and we have a pipeline of 700,000 housing units.

Thank you.

units.

I can say with confidence that today in Kenya we have the largest housing program in the continent of Africa. Let me also say the following. We have mobilized— because of our housing fund, we have mobilized $5 billion from local All domestic resources. We haven't borrowed a single shilling from the World Bank. We haven't borrowed a single shilling from any other institution. This is locally developed resources. We have, as a result, employed 640,000 young people. Architects, quantity surveyors, masons, carpenters, electricians, and all the other professionals. And we are on the way to hiring a million young people in the short term. And number 3, we have begun the journey of reversing Slum growth. In fact, in the city of Nairobi, we have started to remove slums, to replace them with decent housing. And number 5, we have reduced land fragmentation. We now have more land to do agriculture because we are consolidating settlements in proper, organized cities. I am giving the Kenyan perspective because I had my sister Sarah from my neighbor country in Uganda, and she made a very fundamental statement. She was just wondering how it is possible for a person in a slum to be able to live in a skyscraper on the 11th floor? Let me tell Sarah, it is possible. We have done it in Kenya. The cost of a social house on the 11th floor is the same as the cost of a slum dwelling house. They used to pay $40 they now pay $40 on the 11th floor because we have set up the mechanism for that to happen. Finally, let me speak to 2 paradoxes. As I stand here, 25% of the world's population will be living in the African continent by 2050. If there is a place that housing is important and urgent, it is in our continent. Why? Because that is where the world population— a quarter of the world population will be living, and 70% of that population will be living in urban centers. and therefore housing becomes a central pillar of how the world will look like in the future. And that is why it is important for this meeting to focus on 2 items. We have a serious paradox: a continent that has huge resources, that will have the world's largest population, 25% of the world's population by 2050, today cannot access concessional funding to drive its development. Much more important, housing, because today African countries and emerging economies pay 2, 3, 4 times more to access development financing because of elements of risk. We need to correct this paradox, and that is why we have said there is urgent need to reform the international financial architecture so that it is aligned to the needs the requirements, and the imperatives of the current world. Most of our countries did not exist in 1945 when the Bretton Woods institutions were established. Today, we do not have enough voice, we do not have enough access, and even The paradox is that the countries who need concessional funding the most pay more than the countries who don't need it when they go to the market. That has to be corrected, and that is why we are of the firm position as African countries that we need the reform of the international financial architecture so that it represents the exigencies of the present. And finally, we need to correct another paradox, that 1.5 billion people in the African continent, the largest body of represent— of membership of the United Nations, 55 countries from Africa, are not represented at the highest decision-making organ of the United Nations Security Council. And the bigger paradox is that 60% of the agenda of the United Nations Security Council are African issues. What a paradox that your issues are being discussed on a table that you are not represented. And that is why we are saying, for the survival of the United Nations, there must be reform that corrects this anomaly, that brings justice so that the United Nations and the United Nations Security Council specifically becomes representative, democratic, and brings on board the views of the African continent. That is how we are going to solve the problems of the present and figure out how we are going to have a better future. In Baku, we have the opportunity to influence and to change the cities of the future and make them livable, sustainable, and good for everybody. I thank you.

Thank you, Excellency. I have the honor to invite His Excellency Aleksandar Vučić, President of the Republic of Serbia. Your Excellency, the floor is yours.

Your Excellencies, Distinguished colleagues, ladies and gentlemen, first of all, I would like to thank you all, particularly to you, Azerbaijani people, for great hospitality, for one more beautiful reception here in Baku and unforgettable event. you have organized once again. And thank— many thanks to President Aliyev, my dear friend, because I'll tell you something a bit differently. Whenever I come to Baku, whenever I come to Azerbaijan, and it happens at least once a year, I see big changes. I see a lot of progress that you Azerbaijani people and President Aliyev did together for the sake of your people and for the sake of your country. And it's always easier to be seen by someone who comes from abroad, by foreigners, because you're much easier adjustable and adaptable to the changes you're facing with. But we can see how big progress your country has made in the recent years. And that's because— I'll tell you a very simple explanation— that is because of your diligence and dedication. But apart from that, it's about something that Tilkhaim Halev has more than most of us, or more than all of us. What is that? It's a passion, it's an ardency for his people and for his country. That's why he is doing such terrific progress. That's why Baku looks like the very best places in today's world. I very much admire him, very much admire you, dear friends, and trying to do something, cannot say similar, but to a certain extent, yes, in my country, in Serbia. I would like to congratulate Azerbaijan for its outstanding efforts in hosting the 13th World Urban Forum and to commend their important and innovative initiative to organize for the first time a summit on the sidelines of this event. Retaining such a format as a regular feature in the future iterations would, in my view, be of great significance for leveraging the full potential of World Urban Forum. We are gathered here in breathtaking and inspiring Azerbaijan on the shores of the Caspian Sea to discuss the challenges and immense opportunities of urbanization. This 13th World Urban Forum, with a central theme, Housing the World: Safe and Resilient Cities and Communities, has brought together politicians, mayors, officials and local authorities, businesspersons, academics and NGOs. With thousands of attendees here in Baku, the interest of the global community for the future of cities and the challenges they face is evident and clear. In Baku, we see a city that reflects tradition, resilience, and innovation. Its blend of history and innovative development gives testament to what is possible when sustainable urban planning and inclusive governance are prioritized. It is well known that over half of global humanity lives in cities, and this percentage is expected to grow in the future. Cities, towns, and settlements are financially the center of economic growth, production, innovation, education and learning, digitalization and artificial intelligence. Without cities and urban space, life on our shrinking planet would be unimaginable. At the same time, cities are the epitome of global ills in a most concentrated manner and host a myriad of problems that plague today's civilization. Cities are confronting more Often then not with problems of overcrowding, inadequate and expensive housing, uncontrolled pollution, the devastating effects of climate change, transport congestion, and unmanageable waste collection. In addition, problems like crime, corruption, and sex trafficking are centered in cities and much less in rural areas. In approaching the challenges that cities space, I propose that we focus on issues of sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. In the era of unrelenting climate change, it is imperative to invest in decarbonization, adaptation to climate change, a transition to renewable energy, and nature-based solutions. Many global cities face serious problems of pollution that inflict major health problems. Having more and more green spaces is essential. Urban space must be accessible to all. Marginalized communities need to be included and not left behind. Approximately 1.1 billion people worldwide live in slums or informal settlements, accounting for about one-quarter of the global urban population. They do not have access to adequate drinking water or sanitation. In the 21st century, this state of affairs is unacceptable. unacceptable and must be reversed through collective efforts. Technology, digitization, and AI can be key in the future development of cities. It is evident that smart cities are the future and that problems of overcrowding, transport congestion, parking, and waste could be solved through AI-driven solutions. Of course, the challenges of AI must be carefully considered because it transition to artificial intelligence may cause problems of workers losing employment and becoming redundant. In Serbia's capital Belgrade, free public transport has been introduced and we are looking forward to expanding the use of electric buses to further reduce air pollution. We are of course looking forward to working with our friends from Azerbaijan on constructing in the near future a gas-powered electricity power facility. facility near the southern Serbian city of Niš. With 2 state-of-the-art supercomputers at the state data center in Kragujevac and the 3rd coming soon, Serbia needs to increase its electricity output through renewable energy, both wind and solar, as well as nuclear. But in the meantime, reliance on gas from Azerbaijan as well will be crucial. Likewise, we have recently adopted a law enabling millions of persons who were living in unregistered housing to legalize their properties so that every citizen now knows that they are the rightful owner of their home or apartment. Cities are the natural environment for fostering creativity, innovation, and diverse talents of young people while encouraging the development of new ideas and solutions aimed at improving everyday life of communities. As the host of the specialized exhibition Education Expo in 2027. With the theme Play for Humanity, Belgrade will provide an exceptional platform for more than 140 countries of the world to present to the world their creative and innovative solutions through music and sports. At the same time, we are proud of the fact that Expo 2027 in Belgrade will provide an opportunity to showcase concrete innovative solutions that can help ease urban traffic congestion advance sustainable mobility, and improve the quality of life of citizens, including new generations of electric aircraft and smart transport systems. I look, dear friends, forward to seeing you at Expo 2027 in Belgrade, and once again, many thanks for your beautiful reception and great hospitality. Thank you.

Thank you very much, Excellency. I have the honor to invite His Excellency Sadyr Zaparov, President of the Kyrgyz Republic. Your Excellency, the floor is yours.

Distinguished heads of state, ladies and gentlemen, distinguished participants of the World Urban Forum. First and foremost, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, esteemed Ilham Aliyev, and the brotherly people of Azerbaijan for their warm hospitality and for organizing this important event at the highest level. For all the housing, safe and resilient cities housing the world provides a unique platform for discussing issues of urbanization, sustainable development, and climate change, and housing accessibility. Distinguished participants. As a mountainous country, the Kyrgyz Republic attaches particular importance to the sustainable development of mountain regions. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, mountains not only directly support the livelihoods and well-being of 1.1 billion mountain inhabitants worldwide, but also indirectly benefit billions of people living in foothills Unfortunately, glacier melting, climate change, population migration, and increasing pressure on ecosystems are negatively affecting cities located in high mountain and foothill regions. These small yet historically rich cities, possessing unique cultural characteristics and facing numerous challenges. In order to ensure sustainable development of mountain cities, I would like to draw your attention to 3 key areas. First, ensuring ecosystem resilience. We advocate for the development of integrated urban management strategies that can take into account the vulnerability of mountain ecosystems. In particular, adaptation to decreasing glacier runoff and the implementation of water-saving technologies are critically important. In addition, it is essential to develop and implement environmentally friendly systems for waste collection, recycling, and disposal, as well as to prevent pollution of natural landscapes. We also consider the use of local environmentally friendly materials, energy-efficient technologies, and seismic-resistant design adapted to mountain conditions highly relevant. The second area is innovation for mountain urbanism. This is about the development of the smart technologies adapted to the specific characteristics of mountainous region, including the digitalization of municipal services, transportation, and energy supply systems. Using the experience of the Kyrgyz Republic as an example, we believe it is necessary to maximize the use of hydropower and solar energy potential in mountainous regions to ensure energy independence and reduce emissions. Of course, it is equally important to create transport networks resilient to natural disasters and to develop early warning systems. The third area, it's human capital and cultural heritage. Mountain cities are not only about nature, it's about people first of all. Therefore, we strive to create comfortable living and working conditions for our citizens and guests. Including the development of education and social infrastructure, touristic routes and facilities, as well as support for the concept of digital nomads. Given the particular relevance of mountain city development, as well as our experience and expertise in this field, we propose considering the establishment of an International Association of Mountain Cities. We hope that the association will become a platform for exchanging best practices and implementing joint research projects aimed at the sustainable development of mountain cities. From our side, we are ready to host the headquarters of the association in Bishkek. Distinguished participants, providing affordable, safe, and high-quality housing is one of the key challenges of the modern world. In the context of rapid urbanization in our country's cities, bear the primary responsibility for creating decent living conditions for our citizens. Today, cities are becoming centers of economic development, innovation, and human capital. At the same time, cities are among the first to face the consequences of climate change, increasing pressure on infrastructure, housing challenges, and security issues. Therefore, the development of housing construction remains a priority area of the state policy in the Kyrgyz Republic. This is clearly demonstrated by the fact that in 2025, only more than 1.8 million square meters of housing were commissioned in Kyrgyzstan, while investment in the sector reached nearly $2 billion. Special attention is paid to the development of mortgage or housing mechanisms. Since 2021, more than 9,000 families have received housing under the framework of the state housing policy. Furthermore, in 2025, over 4,600 families received the keys to new apartments. Currently, more than 70,000 apartments are under construction across the country, creating a solid foundation for further expanding housing accessibility. Distinguished participants, the capital of the Kyrgyz Republic, the city of Bishkek, has gained considerable experience in implementing urban governance reforms. Urban infrastructure is currently being modernized, public transportation is being upgraded, and digital solutions are being successfully introduced into the city management. Particular attention is being paid to urban greening and the promotion of energy efficiency. At the end of last year, Bishkek inaugurated central— launched the first in Central Asia waste recycling plant. The plant designed to process up to 365,000 tons of waste annually and generate up to 30 megawatts of electricity. It's as of today. For comparison, producing the same amount of electricity previously required approximately 60,000 tons of coal annually, resulting in the emission of around 100,000 tons of carbon dioxide. The construction of similar facilities is planned in the cities of Karakol and Osh, and I invite forum participants to visit our exhibition pavilion to learn more about this project. In addition, in June last year, with the support of the United Nations Environment Program, The Thousand Green Walls pilot initiative was launched in Bishkek. The project is aimed at expanding urban greening efforts in developing sustainable environmental solutions. Distinguished participants, in conclusion, I would like to emphasize that the Kyrgyz Republic is ready both to share its experience and learn from others. I hope that the outcomes of today's forum will provide a strong foundation for developing advanced solutions that will shape the future of urban development and ensure the sustainable prosperity of our countries. We believe that only through joint efforts can we build sustainable, inclusive, and comfortable cities for future generations— cities where people, nature, and progress coexist in harmony. I wish the summit every success. And thank you very much for your attention.

Thank you, Excellency. I have the honor to invite Her Excellency Iliana Jotova, President of the Republic of Bulgaria. Your Excellency, the floor is yours.

Ladies and gentlemen, Excellencies, allow me to start with words of gratitude to our host, the Republic of Azerbaijan, and Mr. President Aliyev. Thank you to the Republic of Azerbaijan for transforming Baku into a place where the world speaks Thank you. The theme that has brought us together here, Housing the World, is a theme upon which all others ultimately depend. Behind this theme are people and not only statistics. Nearly 2.8 billion people worldwide live without a home that meets the standards of human dignity. More than 1 billion live in informal settlements, and to meet global needs by the end of this decade alone, the world would need to create, in practical terms, one housing unit every second. Every second that I speak, somewhere in the world, a family is waiting for a home. Access to housing is not merely a market issue. It is a matter of justice. A home is not a commodity. It is the beginning of everything else. Without it, there can be no stable employment, no education for children, no healthcare, no citizens who can feel part of their community. When a city loses their capacity to shelter its people, it has not only lost buildings, it has lost its meaning. That is why I firmly believe that the most modern city is not the one with the greatest number of technologies. The most modern city is the one in which no one feels abandoned. Excellencies, we must acknowledge something that contemporary science has long understood but politics has yet to fully accept. The city in its classical meaning no longer exists. Today we are talking of a polycentrical region with, uh, the limits between cities are blurring, and the economies, the infrastructures, and the transport corridors, and the market of work is changing at new rates. This is not something about the future. This is already happening. We can see it in— from Asia to North Europe, America and Europe. We can deny this reality and continue trying to govern mega regions with tools that were designed for small industrial cities of a century ago and wonder why they no longer work. Or we can accept reality and build governance that matches its scale— connected, multi-level, and shared governance that is shared, that is based on the principle of common goals, differentiated roles among national governments, regions, cities, and communities. I believe in the second path, and as As cities continue to grow, new waves of people are moving towards them. We live in a time of wars, unfortunately. At this very moment, while we are gathered here, conflicts across the world are forcing millions of people from their homes. More than 60% of them seek refuge precisely in cities.

Thank you.

Because the city is the first place where a fleeing human being searches again for safety, work, a school for their child, a fragment of normal life. For too long, the world has spoken about migration primarily as a threat. Let us change the direction of this conversation. This is not a threat. It is a reality for which we must be prepared. A prepared city transforms the arriving person into a citizen, an employee, a taxpayer, a neighbor. An unprepared city pushes that person towards the margins, into informality, invisibility, and exclusion. The difference between the two is a choice that we as political leaders either make or refuse to make. And beyond wars, There is something even greater. For years, climate change has been displacing not merely individuals but entire regions because of droughts, water scarcity, rising sea levels, and lands that cannot longer sustain those who cultivated for generations. Scientists warn us that if current trends continue, entire continents will witness people rising and moving in, in search of the simplest and most sacred right of all, the right to live. For millions of people around the world, housing has already become the front line in the fight against climate change. Urban resilience is not an environmental luxury. A city that is unprepared for climate disruption risks destabilizing entire regions. In Bulgaria, we know those processes well. We are a member state of the European Union situated at the crossroads of major corridors of connectivity. But our country, like much of Europe, faces an aging population, internal migration, depopulation of some regions, and growing inequalities between major urban centers and smaller towns. We know what it means for one city to grow while another one nearby slowly fades away. We know what it means when young families can no longer afford a home and when entire generations begin to lose their sense of perspective. These realities place us before the same challenges regardless of which part of the world we come from. And when the problem is shared, the solutions must be shared as well. The world must exchange knowledge and achievements freely rather than guarding them in isolation, because our homes and our future are shared. Our investments must be directed towards people, Not towards infrastructure for its own sake. Technology must serve humanity, not replace it. Artificial intelligence, digital systems, and smart cities will have true value only if they serve people, only if they reduce inequalities and make life more accessible, more secure, and more dignified. And above all, housing policies must not remain merely a sectorial policy. It must become a policy for the future of society itself. Because ultimately, we need cities that do not divide people by income, generation, or origin. We want cities— we want cities that give opportunity that creates community. Let us stop measuring the success of a city by the number of its skyscrapers, by its skyline, or by its gross product. Let us begin measuring the city by whether it is able that even the most vulnerable person has a home, has access, and has a voice. This means truly placing housing at the heart of international, national, and local policies. A city should not become great simply because it is large in size. A city becomes big and great when nobody is considered as unnecessary. Ladies and gentlemen, today cities are geopolitics in action. The way we build them will determine not only the quality of our lives, but also the stability of our societies, the resilience of our states, and the trust we place in our political systems. The future will not be measured solely by economic growth. It will be measured by whether we have succeeded in creating cities where people want to live, to build their families, to work and to dream. Let us not leave Baku with only another declaration. Let us leave Baku with determination so that the Baku Call to Action will be remembered not for its words, but for the homes that will be built because of it. Thank you for your attention.

Thank you.

Thank you, Excellency. I have the honor to invite His Excellency Irakli Kabaqidze, Prime Minister of Georgia. The floor is yours, Excellency.

Excellencies, Ladies and gentlemen, it's an honor for me to address this distinguished audience at the 13th World Urban Forum here in Baku. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Republic of Azerbaijan for its traditional warm hospitality and excellent arrangement of this important global gathering. This forum, organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme, serves as an essential platform to exchanging experiences and advancing a shared vision for safer and inclusive communities. Cities today stand at the center of nearly every major global challenge, from climate resilience and housing security to sustainable development and social cohesion. The way we plan, develop, and protect our urban spaces will ultimately shape the stability, well-being, and resilience of our societies for generations to come. In recent years, alongside Georgia's strong economic growth, balanced territorial development and modern urban planning have become key priorities of our national policy. Our objective is not only to expand infrastructure and improve quality of life, but to ensure that growth remains sustainable, regionally balanced, and centered around the needs of our citizens. With the support of our international partners, Georgia is advancing the National Spatial Development Concept. This landmark document serves as the important foundation for housing and urban development, ensuring a harmonious integration of space that reflects our commitment to balanced and sustainable development across every region of our country. To ensure the effective implementation of these reforms, we have strengthened institutional coordination through a specialized agency within the system of central government. This mechanism supports long-term planning and helps ensure that urban transformation is guided by strategic vision, continuity, and effective governance. At the same time, we recognize that resilient cities are not defined solely by physical infrastructure. They must also respond to social realities, demographic changes, and emerging environmental challenges. Modern Urban resilience requires accessible public services, sustainable mobility, climate-conscious planning, and policies that improve the quality of life for every community. One of Georgia's most significant recent achievements has been the completion of the national cadastre and the full registration of land parcels throughout the country. This reform has strengthened legal certainty, improved land administration, and created a more transparent foundation for economic activity and territorial governance. In parallel, the privatization of residential units allocated during the Soviet period has now been finalized. With these units fully transferred into private ownership, we have established a definitive framework for urban stability and individual property rights. At the core of our urban and housing policies remains the well-being of our people. For decades, Georgia has continued to address the humanitarian consequences of war and occupation by providing housing and social support to internally displaced persons from the occupied territories of Georgia. We continue to develop new settlements and transfer housing units to affected families as part of our long-term commitment to dignified living conditions and social inclusion. Our policies also prioritize support for young families eco-migrants, and residents of mountainous regions. Through targeted state programs and innovative financial mechanisms, we seek to improve housing accessibility and create equal opportunities for development across all regions of Georgia. The city is a vessel for nation's identity. Our initiatives are guided by a commitment to the preservation of traditional Georgian architectural heritage. We believe that modernization must not come at the cost of history. By integrating traditional architectural elements into contemporary urban planning, we are asserting our cultural security, building cities that honor our past while functioning for our future. At the same time, for us, reducing the rural-urban divide remains one of the key priorities of sustainable development policy. In close cooperation with the United Nations, and international partners, the government is actively working to promote more balanced and inclusive development across all regions of the country. As we continue our transition toward an upper-middle-income economy with stronger institutions and steady economic growth, the sustainable development of regions remains at the core of our national priorities. Particular emphasis is placed on ensuring that rural and mountainous communities benefit equally from modern infrastructure, quality public services, and new economic opportunities. Through inclusive and regionally balanced policies, we aim to strengthen local communities, reduce disparities between urban and rural areas, and create sustainable conditions for long-term development throughout the country. Georgia remains fully committed to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and the New urban agenda. We stand ready to further strengthen cooperation with our international partners in advancing safe, inclusive, and resilient human settlements for present and future generations. Thank you very much.

Thank you, Excellency. And now I have the honor to invite His Excellency Oljas Bekhtenev. Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Your Excellency, the floor is yours.

Excellencies, distinguished participants, ladies and gentlemen, allow me to begin by expressing my sincere gratitude to His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev and the government of the Republic of Azerbaijan for the outstanding organization of the World Urban Forum. Holding this event in Baku, a city that harmoniously combines rich historical heritage with a modern and sophisticated landscape, highlights the importance of the global sustainable urban development agenda and the growing role of our region in shaping it. For Kazakhstan, where more than 63% of the population currently lives in urban areas, ensuring comfortable living conditions and opportunities for decent employment, as emphasized by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, remains one of the key priorities of state policy. That's why we are implementing a people-centered approach in which comfort safety, accessibility, and environmental sustainability serve as the foundation for cities for citizens. This January, Kazakhstan adopted a new construction code with unified standards for architectural design, urban quality, and integrated urban planning. Moreover, urban development centers have been established across all regions of Kazakhstan. At the same time, we understand that sustainable urban development requires addressing challenges such as technology and AI, water security, climate change, resilience building, and other pressing issues to which we are taking consistent measures. Let me give some examples. First, technology. One of our most ambitious initiatives is the development of Alatau City in the Almaty region as a center of advanced urban growth. This modern urban cluster is designed to attract international investment, cutting-edge management technologies, and innovative solutions. Last year, Kazakhstan enacted the Law on Artificial Intelligence, establishing a legal framework for the safe, transparent, and human-centered use of AI technology. Today, more than 1,200 public services are available through Kazakhstan's digital e-government ecosystem. We have declared 2026 the Year of Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence to underscore our strategic focus on technological transformation and the development and management of modern cities. Kazakhstan stands ready to share its experience in AI and digitalization through international cooperation platforms, notably the newly established ESCAP Asia and Pacific Digital Solutions Center for Sustainable Development in Almaty. Second, water and ecology. The new Constitution of Kazakhstan, recently adopted through a national referendum, elevates environmental protection to the level of a fundamental state value. Today, against the backdrop of climate change and growing scarcity, sustainable water management is becoming an integral component of resilient urban development. In this context, we are promoting the initiative of the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, to establish establish an International Water Organization under the auspices of the United Nations. Last month, Astana hosted the Regional Ecological Summit to generate new momentum for practical cooperation among the Central Asian states on climate resilience, environmental sustainability, and water security. Third, resilience. Kazakhstan actively cooperates with UN-Habitat and participates in national and international initiatives on sustainable and resilient urban development. Last year, we hosted the first National Urban Forum in Kızılordağ, bringing together government institutions, international organizations, experts, and business representatives. In addition, under the global initiative Making Cities Resilient 2030, Our capital Astana has been designated a resilience hub, the first such platform in Central Asia. At the same time, we look forward to the UN Regional Center for the SDGs for Central Asia and Afghanistan in Almaty beginning its work as a regional coordination and collaboration hub for advancing shared priorities. Distinguished participants, Kazakhstan remains committed to open dialogue and practical partnership in addressing global urban challenges. We are confident that only through collective action and shared responsibility can we build modern, sustainable, and resilient cities for future generations. In conclusion, I would, I would once again like to express my sincere gratitude to the fraternal Republic of Azerbaijan for hosting the World Urban Forum at such a high level and for its warm hospitality.

Thank you.

Thank you, Excellency. I have the privilege to invite His Majesty Mswati III, King of Eswatini, to deliver his statement. The floor is yours, Majesty.

Your Excellency, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, our host, Your Excellencies, heads of state and government, Executive Director of UN-Habitat, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, it is a great honor to join and address the 13th session of the World Urban Forum in this beautiful city of Baku under the important theme Housing the World: Safe and Resilient Cities and Communities. This theme addresses one of the defining responsibilities of our time, ensuring that development uplifts human dignity and improves the quality of life for all people. Across the world, billions of people still face the harsh realities of inadequate housing, rapid urbanization, climate disasters, poverty, and strained infrastructure. These challenges transcend regions and levels of development. They affect both developed and developing nations. At their center is the human being. Therefore, housing is more than concrete and steel. It presents dignity, safety, stability, and hope. A home is the foundation for strong families and resilient communities. A truly resilient city is measured not by height of its skyscrapers, but by its ability to protect and empower its people, especially the most vulnerable. In the Kingdom of Eswatini, we place people at the center of all development. We pursue sustainable urban growth that goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship, economic inclusion, and social cohesion. Our national priorities focuses on affordable housing, quality infrastructure, integrated spatial planning, and environmental sustainability for both urban and rural communities. In 2025, we launched Strategy 2030, a comprehensive framework aligned with the New Urban Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals. This strategy is expanding access to home ownership and significantly improving living conditions for all Emaswati. Our municipalities and housing institutions continue to deliver housing schemes for different segments of society, while partnerships with the private sector and development partners provide decent homes for vulnerable groups. These efforts reflect our commitment to inclusive and compassionate development. Your Excellencies, guiding Guiding our efforts is the Dingunda system of governance, which is our people-centered approach that promotes grassroots consultation, broad participation, and shared responsibility. This system ensures development priorities emerge from the communities themselves and that no woman, youth, the elderly, persons with disabilities, or marginalized groups are left behind. We recognize that no nation can address urbanization, climate change, and housing insecurity alone. Eswatini welcomes the outcomes of the Africa Urban Forum, particularly the declarations from Addis Ababa in 2024 and Nairobi in 2026. We reaffirm our full support for UN-Habitat and its leadership in implementing the New Urban Agenda in partnership with the African Union and UNECA. Your Excellencies, the scale of these challenges demands stronger cooperation and innovative partnerships across governments, the private sector, civil society, and communities. We must invest in renewable energy, green infrastructure, climate-resilient settlements, smart technologies, and sustainable construction methods while ensuring we always keep people at the center. As we invest in new sources of power, we must find a balance between renewable energy and traditional sources of electricity to ensure sustainable development for our economies. Your Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, as we deliberate during this forum, let us commit to practical solutions, and renewed determination to build inclusive, resilient, safe, and sustainable cities and communities for all. Let us act not only for our generation but for those who will inherit the decisions we make today. May wisdom guide our discussions, and may our collective efforts bring lasting progress, prosperity, and dignity to our people. In conclusion, let me express my profound appreciation to you, Mr. President, the government, and the people of Azerbaijan for the warm hospitality extended to me, the Nkosikati, and my entire delegation in this beautiful city of Baku. We are delighted to witness the impressive development and modernization taking place across your great nation. Baku truly symbolizes how a country can preserve its, its rich heritage while embracing innovation and progress. I thank you. May Almighty God bless us all.

Thank you very much, Majesty. It is my pleasure to invite His Excellency Dharambir Gokhul, President of the Republic of Mauritius. Your Excellency, the floor is yours.

Thank you very much, Your Excellency.

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, all protocol observed. Good afternoon, bon après-midi, and salaam. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, let me start my address by thanking His Excellency President Aliyev, the Honourable Prime Minister, the Government and people of the Republic of Azerbaijan for the kind invitation and the warm and cordial hospitality extended to me and to my delegation to this important forum. I would like to convey to the organizers and all participants the warm and friendly greetings of the government and the people of the Republic of Mauritius. Ladies and gentlemen, the theme before us, Housing the World, Safe and resilient cities and communities goes to the very heart of one of the most pressing challenges of our time. We meet at the Midpoint Review of the New Urban Agenda, at a moment when nearly 3 billion people worldwide live in inadequate housing conditions. 1 billion live in slums and informal settlements, and 300 million lack any form of shelter. A formidable and unprecedented humanitarian challenge indeed, a challenge central to human dignity, social stability, and sustainable development. development. This forum is therefore not only very timely but also very opportune for sharing experiences, knowledge, and best practices to advance the agenda for the future of sustainable urban planning and development. Across the globe, cities are expanding at an unprecedented rate. Yet this growth is too often unplanned, unequal, and environmentally unsustainable, resulting in a widening gap between opportunity and reality, between the promise of urban life and the lived experience of families. Housing is today more than shelter. It is a basic human need and human dignity. If we are to achieve a sustainable human development, housing and urban planning must be at the heart of public policy. Ladies and gentlemen, Mauritius, a small island developing state where land is scarce, Sea level rise is real. Environmental risks and the pressures of urbanization are increasingly visible. We fully support and are committed towards the realization of the goals of this forum because for us, planning is not an option. It is essential. It is existential. To address this challenge, in November 2025, government approved a new National Development Strategy which provides a people-centric, comprehensive, sustainable spatial framework for development up to 2040, in line with the principles advocated by UN-Habitat and the New Urban Agenda. To ensure the optimal use of limited resources while balancing economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social equity, a number of key measures have already been adopted and include expanding access to decent, safe, affordable, and ecological housing for low- and middle-income families. Reserving a proportion of social housing units for persons with disabilities, single mothers, and the elderly. Encouraging integrated communities through better alignment of housing, public services, transport connectivity, and economic opportunities. At the same time, we are modernising land administration through digitization of land records to improve transparency, reduce disputes, prevent speculation, and promote more equitable access to land. Our National Development Strategy is therefore a guiding transition toward a more sustainable urban model, where one that promotes balanced territorial development efficient land use, improved connectivity, and greater environmental stewardship and climate resilience. For Mauritius, climate change is not a distant threat. It is a daily reality. We are determined to build communities that are not only sustainable but resilient by design. Here I would like to take this opportunity to commend the 10-year comprehensive urban transformational initiatives of the government and people of Azerbaijan, in particular the White City project, the master plan for the Agdam City project for Karabakh, and the implementation of the 2006 decree on ecological measures under the dedicated and inspirational leadership of President Aliyev. I have no doubt that these landmark initiatives will form an integral part of the reflections and discussions of the 13th WUF and will contribute meaningfully in enriching its conclusions and recommendations. Today, we can also leverage as has been mentioned by previous speakers, intelligently and responsibly the huge potential of AI in reimagining and redirecting urban eco-friendly and sustainable planning and development. Ladies and gentlemen, are we on the right track? We believe that we are making meaningful progress. But we must also be fully aware of the challenges that remain. Our collective experience so far therefore reinforces a simple but important lesson: urban planning is not a one-time exercise and should not be so. It is a continuous process of adaptation, inclusion, and innovation. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, Small Island States face unique constraints: limited land, high exposure to climate risk, and restricted financial and technical capacity. One-size-fits-all solutions will not suffice. We therefore call for stronger international support and solidarity. Global solidarity must translate into practical, targeted support. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, the cities we build today will define the quality of life for future generations. We must continue to innovate, to plan carefully, and to act responsibly. Let us work together to ensure that our cities are not only engines of growth, but also the spaces of inclusion, sustainability, and human dignity. Mauritius stands ready to contribute to this collective effort. My best wishes for a productive and successful forum. I thank you for your kind attention.

Thank you very much.

Thank you, Excellency. I now have the honor to welcome His Excellency Mohamed Yunus al-Menfi, President of the Libyan Presidential Council. You have the floor, Excellency.

Peace be upon you. Peace be upon you. Your Excellencies. The President of Azerbaijan, the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, Mr. Secretary-General of the United Nations, Your Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, on the occasion of our meeting at this important United Nations event, we extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev, and to the friendly Republic of Azerbaijan and its people for hosting the 13th session of the World Urban Forum in the city of Baku, a city that represents a model of interaction between authenticity and modernization, and between heritage and forward-looking vision for urban development. We also express our appreciation for the program of the United Nations for the settlement program, UN-Habitat, for its continuous effort to strengthen international cooperation in addressing the challenges facing urban communities and for its ongoing non-stopping efforts to develop modern platforms and tools, foremost among them the Global Event Management System, which reflects an advanced approach towards enhancing international participation and facilitating coordination and interaction among government institutions and experts in urban and development issues. Ladies and gentlemen, the theme of this year's Forum, Housing the World: Safe and Resilient Cities and Communities, is not merely a title of an international event, but rather a global call to rethink the future of cities and how to ensure the human right to safe, dignified, and sustainable housing. Today, the world is facing an escalating housing crisis affecting billions of people amid widening social disparities and the growing impacts of climate change, accelerated urban growth, and rising rates of migration and displacement. Consequently, housing is no longer a narrow issue but has become a fundamental pillar of stability, development, and societal security. In Libya, we fully recognize the importance of building cities that are more resilient, inclusive, and equitable. We are working to support balanced urban development policies promote sustainable urban planning, and improve infrastructure and basic services, while focusing on empowering local authorities, supporting rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts, and building urban communities that preserve national identity and respond to the requirements of modern development. We also emphasize that addressing the urban challenges requires strengthening international partnerships, transferring knowledge and technology, and providing fair and flexible financing mechanisms for developing countries in a manner that ensures the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and the New Urban Agenda in a more equitable and effective manner.

In the country nowadays. Ladies and gentlemen, the meetings and international events organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Program, UN-Habitat, during 2026, whether here in Baku or in Nairobi or in China, confirm the importance of sustaining the global dialogue on the future of cities and the value of transforming recommendations into practical policies and implementable projects that serve humanity and place people at the heart of the development process. From this platform, Libya reaffirms its full support for all international efforts aimed at building safe, sustainable, and adaptable cities capable of responding to crises, climate, and economic changes. In a manner that enhances regional and international stability and achieves development for future generations. In Libya, we can see the architect history since the eras of the old history about our architect history since the eras of old times. And today we can see the new buildings, modern buildings. In conclusion, we renew our thanks to the Republic of Azerbaijan and to the United Nations for Human Settlements Program, UN-Habitat, for organizing this important global forum. We look forward to its outcomes as a practical step towards a more just sustainable and prosperous future for all, and that we can ensure that the highest importance is given to knowledge and technology transfer and sharing experience. Thank you so much. May peace and mercy and blessings of God be upon you.

Thanks. I now have the privilege to invite His Excellency Jan Kowalczyk, Vice Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China. Your Excellency, the floor is yours.

Your Excellency, President Ilham Aliyev, Executive Director Ana Claudia Roosbach, ladies and gentlemen, friends. It gives me great pleasure to come as the special representative of Chinese President Xi Jinping to attend the 13th— the Leaders' Summit of the 13th World Urban Forum. It also gives me great honor to convey the best wishes from President Xi Jinping to Azerbaijan for hosting the summit, and we wish the summit a full success. President Xi has pointed out that the people's cities are built by the people and built for the people. It is important to build innovative, livable, beautiful, resilient, civilized, smart, and modern people's cities. Under such a guidance of the vision of people's building people's cities, China is now advancing a new urbanization that puts people at the center. The size of China's urban population has grown from 720 million in 2012 to 950 million in 2025. China has built the world's largest system of urban housing assurances. The per capita size of housing of urban population is more than 40 square meters. We're now advancing our efforts to optimize the urban structures transition development momentum, improve quality, promote green transition, inherit cultural traditions, and improve the efficiency of governance, hold tight the bottom line of urban security, and open a path of urban modernization with Chinese characteristics. Ladies and gentlemen, friends, this year we will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the United Nations New Urban Agenda. China stands ready to work with all parties to follow the vision of cities shared by the people and work together to build a more beautiful home of cities. Here I'd like to put forward 4 suggestions. First, to focus more on livable and safe housing, we need to accommodate people's necessary and diversified needs for better houses, build more safe, comfortable, green, and smart good houses. We need to optimize layout of urban spaces, build better infrastructure, improve the standards of public services, and build comfortable and convenient living environment. Second, to focus more on security and resilience. We need to strengthen the security management of houses and urban infrastructure facilities and improve the security assurances of houses, integrate risk prevention control into urban management systems, and build a better urban public security system, build a strong security line for resilient cities. Third, to focus more on innovation-driven development. We need to build on the strengths and realities of urban resources to foster innovation ecosystems and build stronger momentum for urban development. We also need to promote the integration of new technologies such as AI and big data with urban construction development. And to make urban governance more— much smarter and more delicate, forced to focus more on exchanges and cooperation. We need to support the UN-Habitat and other international organizations in playing a better role. China stands ready to actively share its experiences of urban development and step up dialogues and exchanges among cities around the world, as well as cooperation projects and people-to-people exchanges so as to jointly address the common challenges in urban modernization. Cities make lives better and cooperation makes future more promising. China stands ready to work with all parties to jointly implement the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, Global Civilization Initiative, and Global Governance Initiative in urban— in the area of urban development, and jointly build a community with a shared future for humanity and create a brighter future for the global urban community for all. Thank you all.

Thank you.

Thank you, Excellency. To invite His Excellency Constantino Tshivenḓa, Vice President of the Republic of Zimbabwe. You have the floor, Excellency.

Your Excellency, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Excellencies, heads of state and government, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, the Republic of The government of Zimbabwe expresses its appreciation to President Ilham Aliyev and the people of the Republic of Azerbaijan for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to me and my delegation since our arrival in this beautiful and historical city of Baku.

Thank you.

Thank you.

In the same vein, we pay tribute to the Republic of Azerbaijan, previous host of the 12th World Urban Forum, the Arab Republic of Egypt, and United Nations Human Settlement Programme for transforming the World Urban Forum into an epic global conference focused on how cities should be planned, built, managed for sustainable urban development worldwide. The participation of heads of state and government at this 13th World Urban Forum, including Zimbabwe, where I was delegated by the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, His Excellence Dr. Emmerson Mnangagwa, demonstrates the elevation and prioritization of the global discourse on sustainable urban development. As guided by the theme, Housing the World: Safe, and resilient cities and communities. The 13th World Urban Forum should foster global collaboration and strengthen political commitment and practical strategies to address the global housing crisis, including informal settlements and homelessness affecting nearly 3 billion people worldwide. The Republic of Zimbabwe congratulates the Republic of Kenya for hosting the 2nd Africa Urban Forum, noting that its contribution, strategic direction, and declaration are expected to feed into the global urban agenda for this 13th World Urban Forum. Excellencies and distinguished guests, delegates, the summit offers Zimbabwe a strategic opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to the global development agenda. Especially Sustainable Development Goal 11, which aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable by 2030. Zimbabwe emphasizes transforming urban spaces into engines of economic growth. Innovation, and social inclusion, with expectations that the summit will deliver practical strategies to turn urbanization into drivers of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Zimbabwe is aware that, that government alone cannot meet the housing demand due to competing priorities and limited resources, and therefore highlights the role of the private sector in financing, construction, and innovation through public-private partnerships to accelerate housing delivery and infrastructure development. Excellencies, And distinguished delegates, the Zimbabwean government views housing as more than just shelter, but a basic human right. Our strategic direction is determined by the Zimbabwe National Human Settlements Policy, which comprehensively addresses the entire human settlement delivery value chain. Initially, Zimbabwe faced a deficit of approximately 1,500,000 housing units. The deficit was reduced by 1 million housing units that were delivered during the period 2020 to 2025. In this second phase, 2026 to 2030, we are targeting another million units in full acknowledgement that the deficit is a moving target. Excellencies, distinguished guests, our collective responsibility at this summit must therefore go beyond adopting a declaration but translate to renewed commitment to implementation and measurable progress. As I conclude, allow me to reiterate Zimbabwe's commitment towards building smart, resilient, and inclusive cities that uphold dignity, opportunity for all, and act as engines for sustainable growth. Together, we can fulfill the promise of a hopeful future for our people and generations to come. I thank you.

Thank you very much, Excellency. It is my great pleasure to welcome His Excellency Igor Syrgyenko, Chairman of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly of the Republic of Belarus to deliver his remarks. You have the floor, Excellency.

Dear participants of the forum, first of all, let me express my gratitude to the leadership of Azerbaijan, to Ilham Girdarevich and all the organizers of this forum for the high preparation and the traditionally warm hospitality. The title of our forum theme includes the words peace and security. Today, it is the most important topic than ever. President of the Republic of Belarus, Alexander Grigorievich Lukashenko, has repeatedly stated, without peace, there is no sustainable development. Belarus pursues a peaceful foreign policy based on mutually beneficial cooperation with its partners, including in the areas of infrastructure construction, and urban development. A vivid example of such partnership is the joint Belarusian-Azerbaijani project to create an agrotown in the Agdam District of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The idea of this project belongs to the leaders of our countries, and I'm confident that implementation will contribute to improving the living conditions of life of many Azerbaijanis. Belarus is ready to share its experience and capabilities in the field of human development. Our country actively supports global urbanization trends. We are guided by the new urban agenda adopted of the World Cabinet.

In the—

in 2025, the National Sustainable Development Strategy of the Republic of Belarus until One of the most important topics is devoted to housing construction. Our goal is clear: till 2040, a special place is occupied by housing construction. Our goal is simple and clear: every citizen must be provided with quality and affordable housing that meets their needs and complies with modern The future belongs to energy-saving technologies, the wide use of renewable energy sources, and environmentally friendly building support systems. We are moving away from ordinary buildings towards smart residential districts. Belarus is actively developing the concept of sustainable cities where energy-efficient homes coexist And it is a part of thoughtfully defined public spaces. We think that energy-efficient homes do build— are built in such a way that nature and modern technologies work together for the benefit of people. One of the methods that has proven effective in addressing the housing issues in the Republic is the provision of rental housing to seniors. This emphasis is placed on further increasing housing construction in satellite towns and greatly transitioning to landscape estate-style development. In the coming years, priority will shift toward individual housing, which combines comfortable and affordable housing. A new direction will be assessed of the carbon own footprint and construction projects and technologies will be used for RDF. Dear forum participants, the current session coincides with the 10th anniversary of the implementation of the New Urban Agenda. This period has become a time for seeking optimal solutions. Today it is necessary to consolidate achievements and define new priorities. Belarus is open to sincere dialogue and meaningful partnership and is ready to work together with you to seek solutions to the challenges of modern urban development. Only by joining efforts— this is what everybody has said— and listening to every voice, we will be able to build cities where all conditions for high-quality and prosperous life are created. Thank you for your attention.

I have the honor to invite His Excellency Tomáš Starová, Deputy Prime Minister of Slovakia and Minister of Environment. The floor is yours, Excellency.

Your Excellency President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, it is a great I'm honored to address the 13th session of the World Urban Forum here in Baku, a city that symbolizes bridges, history, and modern development, and an appropriate setting for a discussion. Allow me also to thank for all the hospitality we received, me and my delegation from the Republic of Azerbaijan. For Slovakia, urban policy is not viewed in isolation. It is closely linked with environmental policy, energy systems, and economic resilience. Cities are not only centers of growth, they are also critical infrastructure systems that must be secure, functional, and adaptable. I would like to underline Slovakia's strong support for the Sustainable Urban Resilience for the Next Generation search initiative of UN-Habitat. We see this initiative as a practical and result-oriented platform. Our support is not only political but also substantive. We are committed to contributing expertise, sharing experience, and supporting implementation efforts that lead to measurable improvements in urban resilience. A growing number of cities around the world are facing the consequences of military conflicts. Urban infrastructure is damaged or destroyed. Basic services are disrupted. Communities are displaced. The challenge is not only reconstruction but long-term revitalization, and Slovakia is ready to assist by this renovation. In our country, 55% of our households live in houses. Not all of them are new, and a lot of them are being built 7 years ago, and they need to be modernized. For this reason, our purpose is that people have the lowest possible costs for living, and for this reason, Slovakia supported heavily the modernization of old dwellings. I think that every country now has the same challenge and this is to provide cost-effective, energy-effective, but also a good standard of living for everyone. But higher standards that are very often required by new policies mean that they increase the prices. And I think that we should tackle the climate change not only by input of new standards but also to preserve communities not falling into a new way of property— of new way of social unrests and poverty. We have to recognize that new standards very often are pushing prices high, and fighting climate change has to be done, but it has to be done in the most effective way that will not solve only one problem and creating the second one. Slovakia has a unique expertise in water management and we are ready to assist in this expertise and to share it with other countries of the world. Thank you once again for all the hospitality and that Slovakia can be part of this discussion.

Thank you.

Thank you very much, Excellency. I now have the honor to invite His Excellency Derya Geldi Orazov, Chairman of the State Committee for the Construction of the City of Arkadag under the President of Turkmenistan. The floor is yours, Excellency.

Good afternoon, dear participants of the World Urban Forum. Ladies and gentlemen, we congratulate you on the opening of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum, the leading global conference on sustainable urbanization organized by UN-Habitat with the support of the government of Azerbaijan, and we sincerely wish you the forum's successful work. Today, cities are key centers of the rapidly changing global economy. One of the processes shaping them is urbanization. Urbanization studies cities as complex systems that unite people, space, and technology. It combines knowledge from architecture, urban planning, sociology, economics, ecology, and geography. Overall, urbanization is one of the defining processes of the modern world. The high-level World Urban Forum held under the umbrella of the UN is a vivid example of this. As all the leaders and heads of state who spoke before me stressed, urbanization is impossible without environmental approach. Also covering global problems, I would like to introduce the new city of Arkadag. That implements the concepts of safety, sustainability, and efficiency. It's a recent city, and in this short period, it has already got it— won its place as a sustainable and safe city. city, of course, we have to start from studying the history. And the idea of creating and building a new modern city belongs to our national leader, who carried out extensive analytical work studying various regions of our country to determine the best location. Under his leadership, the city's master plan was developed and designed, taking into account all the natural features and resources of the area. The issue of city planning and location was approached scientifically, considering natural and climatic zoning, weather conditions, including wind patterns, seismic conditions, engineering infrastructure, green spaces, and a number of other factors contributing to the preservation of the region's environmental balance. During the construction of the city, particular attention was paid to implementing the concepts of a safe, green, and smart city. The smart city concept is based on integrating advanced information and communication technologies which contribute to building a unified city to ensure coordinated management of urban structures and services, finally to improve the quality of life of the population. One of the city's safety systems is video surveillance network designs for visual monitoring and automatic image analysis With the option to activate emergency response through the unified 123 service. In the city of Arkadag, tactile paving indicators have been installed to facilitate comfortable movement for visually impaired individuals, serving as essential means for social adaptations. Traffic lights equipped with sound signals and illuminated signs significantly enhance the ability of people with visual or hearing impairments to move independently and safely. Several approaches were developed to create a green city, one of which is the careful use of water resources. As you know, the Karakum Desert located on the territory of Turkmenistan occupies a large part of our country. Water is territory. So our ancestors compared every drop of water to a grain of gold and worshiped it as the greatest sacred value. Keeping this in mind, during the construction of the city, technologies for the reuse of water were developed and implemented, including the collection of groundwater and rainwater for irrigating the city's green areas. Today, during the second phase of the city's construction work continues for collecting groundwater and rainwater, as well as for recycling water from sewage treatment facilities to reuse it for irrigation, not just in Arkadag but also in nearby settlements. This contributes to conserving water resources, the shortage of which is a global issue. The next step was the decision to use electric vehicles in Arkadag for public transportation, also for online taxi services and electric buses, which contributes to the environmental situation in the city. Electrical vehicles are also used for delivering goods purchased through online stores. Turkmenistan is one of the sunniest and hottest countries in Central Asia. The number of sunny days per year is up to 240, which contributes to the efficient use of solar power plants as alternative energy sources, especially in urban environments. Today, work is underway in the city of Arkadag jointly with the banks to use alternative energy sources, which will significantly reduce electricity consumption and consequently decrease harmful emissions generated during electricity generation. Environmental balance is also supported by landscaping efforts in the city. It should be noted that we plant coniferous fruit plants and bushes all over this, around the city. It can be said that city of Arkadag was created not just through application of intelligence systems, but also from the perspective on environmental protection to preserve the ecological balance. The main objective was not to disrupt natural foundations, but on the contrary, to preserve them. Environmental protection is one of the key priorities of Turkmenistan's social policy. We can say that Arkadag is another vivid reflection of the country's progress and a source of pride for the people of Turkmenistan. The city has received around 40 certificates from international organizations, including the one from the UN-Habitat for the implementation of principles of inclusive, safe, sustainable, and smart eco-friendly neighborhoods and communities, and from the Guinness Book of Records for the largest gardening lesson involving over 520 participants, which confirms its uniqueness. These awards recognize the achievements in the field of national urban development made possible with the support of the country's leadership. The city of Arkadag is dynamically integrated into and actively participating in the life of country, special attention is paid to the spatial development. Primarily, it involves developing engineering infrastructure, including road infrastructure, railway, bus stations, highways, which will create greater opportunities for the city's development and integration. For the active leisure time of residents, stadiums, sport complexes, and parks have been built Featuring facilities for recreational activities and events, running and cycling trails, gazebos for leisure, and board games. These measures positively include— influence the ecological and climatic environment of the city. We care for everybody, including the children with special needs. For this purpose, the Gurbangali Berbikov Children's Health and Rehabilitation Center operates in the city. This center's work for assistance to children in need of care is carried out using the latest scientific achievements and modern medical and rehabilitation equipment. All conditions have been created for the rehabilitation of children with disabilities and their successful integration into society. The Charitable Foundation actively develops international cooperation, participates in humanitarian missions, and strengthens partnerships with various international organizations including UNICEF, the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, the Sun Qinglin Foundation, and other public, public organizations. According to the adapted city development agenda, one of the priorities is the development of of medical industry. For this purpose, the construction of a medical cluster with several facilities producing in-demand medical products will be located— is underway, creating new jobs for the population. These industries are based on the power of nature and will comply with the environmentally friendly product standards and green construction concepts. Production with the medical cluster is planned to be organized with maximum use of local raw materials grown, sourced, and produced in Turkmenistan. This includes medicinal herbs growing in the foothill regions of Turkmenistan, natural salt, and polyethylene and polypropylene produced in local— by local enterprises and many other resources. One of the requirements for enterprises is the availability of relevant international certificates. The city of Arkadag has been adopted as an example by other city administrations striving for economic growth and improved quality of life. Urban economic growth is promoted not by urbanization itself, but by its accompanying effects. The key objective for the city built on the initiative of the national leader of the Turkmen people demonstrates a successful synthesis of traditional respect for nature and modern technologies. Dear forum participants, we wish you success and hope that the forum will provide us with even greater opportunities. Allow us to express our deep gratitude to the national leader of the Turkmen Republic, Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Masjhalatli of Turkmenistan and the President of Turkmenistan for the honor of presenting our project at such a significant international forum. Special appreciation is extended to the President of Azerbaijan for the traditional Asian hospitality and warm welcome. We also thank the forum organizers and namely Anna-Claudia Rosberg for the impeccable preparation and favorable conditions Thank you so much for your attention.

Thank you, Excellency. It is my great pleasure to welcome His Excellency Sai Samal, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Land Management, Urban Planning, and Construction of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Your Excellency, the floor is yours.

Thank you.

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Sundar Hun Manet, the Cambodian delegate highly appreciates the Republic of Azerbaijan and the UN-Habitat for co-hosting the 30th session of the World Urban Forum here in Baku. Thank you so much for your warm hospitality. You see, our glorious past and the peak of our civilization was during the Angkor era. Continuous internal conflicts and war during the last 500 years have made Cambodia a very vulnerable state. After independence from France, Cambodia was a young and vibrant country. However, the golden age did not, did not last long. Cities across Cambodia were ravaged by Vietnam Wars during the '60s and '70s. Our city was emptied out by the Khmer Rouge. During the '80s, Cambodia was a Cold War battleground and was a broken country. Our former Prime Minister, Som Dai Hun Sen, was able to bring different war factions to come together. He stimulated a national awakening to our people. He initiated national reconciliation and healing. He has brought a new hope for Cambodia. Indeed, he is the father of our peaceful Cambodia. With peace, political stability, and sustained economic growth over the last 2 decades, Cambodia is embarking toward a middle-class society. This, of course, has opened up new opportunity for us to build a new Cambodia. The current government of Cambodia, under the leadership of Prime Minister Hun Manet, is seizing the opportunity in front of us, and we are building a new Cambodia. We are focusing on diversifying our economies and building more skillful workforce where people are working hard, earning a living, having enough food on the table, kids go to school, and people can live their life. We are also standardized basic principle infrastructures, services for city across Cambodia. We are making our city more resilient and sustainable, giving more, more power and responsibility to our local administrator. Proper budgeting scheme, conducting proper spatial planning, enhancing partnership and more foundations, investing on digital infrastructures, improving waste management and sanitation, traffic flows, public transport, public orders and security, universal education and healthcare, art, cultural activity, as well as to improve affordable and inclusive mortgage scheme. We are also focusing on concessional policy, providing agricultural lands and affordable housing program for those who lie at the bottom of our society. In the last 10 years, we gave new life to about half a million family throughout Cambodia. We are improving new opportunity for people to be able to move away from informal settlement. Cambodia is hoping to end informal settlement in the near future. We are also focusing building a home, not just providing housing. We are combating drug disease— drug abuse, disease, diabetes, heart disease at home, enhancing family saving, reducing overall family debt, eating green and healthy, more public parks to keep people active. We are also fostering family culture and values. Not only focus on STEM education, but we believe that kids should have— should be inspired by arts, play music, and read books at home. However, changing global orders, the loss of biodiversity, climate change are clear and present threats to Cambodia's recovery in the past decade. A peaceful world is our national strategic interest. Despite being the— being among the lowest emitter of greenhouse gases, Cambodia has consistently done her share to mitigate climate change and to global diversity. Cambodia was the first second LDC and the first in ASEAN to submit long-term strategy for carbon neutrality by 2050. We have also updated our NDC. We are allocating more funding for climate actions and more— and having more renewable energy, a clear national energy efficiency policy, and we have approved a new pro-environment investment law and are greening our financial sectors. We also initiate Green Asian Green Deal and also present joint statement on climate change in Phnom Penh City. Ladies and gentlemen, we are looking at an era of a new promising Cambodia. Thank you.

Thank you very much, Excellency. I have the honor to invite Her Excellency Excellency Albana Kochu, Deputy Prime Minister of Albania. You have the floor, Excellency.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, it is my distinct privilege to be here in Baku, a city that under the transformative leadership of President Aliyev has emerged as one of the important global centers of connectivity, dialogue, and forward-looking ambition. But Baku is not only a center of energy connectivity, it has also become a global platform for dialogue and ideas through the Baku Process and the World Forum of Intercultural Dialogue, through COP29, through the Baku Call on Climate Action, for Peace, Relief, and Recovery, the Baku Adaptation Roadmap, and the Baku Initiative on Human Development for Climate Resilience, this city has placed itself at the intersection of some of the most urgent debates of our time: peace, climate, human development, and resilience. This is precisely why the theme of Uf13, Housing the World: Safe and Resilient Cities and Communities, could not be more timely. The global housing crisis now affects nearly 3 billion people, including more than 1 billion living in informal settlements. These are not just statistics. Behind these figures are families living without security, children growing without adequate services, and communities facing disaster without sufficient protection. No country in the world, wealthy or poor, is immune. Housing is not a secondary issue. It is one of the foundations of dignity, equality, and social stability. For Albania, this discussion is neither abstract nor distant. We know very well the power of infrastructure, urban planning, and public space to change the destiny of communities. When Albania emerged from communism, our cities carried the visible scars of neglect, informality, and isolation. In the early 2000s, Tirana, the capital, began to reinvent itself through a simple but radical intervention: the return of color, the recovery of public space, and the refusal to accept urban decay as normal. It was not only a visual transformation, it was an early lesson that cities shape the confidence of citizens and that urban renewal can restore a sense of belonging. About a decade ago, Albania launched a transformative program of urban renaissance across the country's municipalities. At the time, many dismissed it as an urban cosmetic intervention, provided to be turning point in the requalification of public squares, promenades, historic centers, parks, and urban services. It helped our towns, each of them without exception, become more livable, more attractive, and more prepared to benefit from new economic opportunities. The results are visible. Albania welcomed around 4.1 million foreign visitors in 2015. By 2025, that number had grown to over 12.4 million visitors. Tourism growth has many causes, but there is no serious doubt that better cities, improved public space, and stronger urban identities have been part of this national transformation. But Albania has also learned the meaning of resilience the hard way. In 2019, earthquake reminded us that housing is not simply a roof over one's head. It is protection, dignity, the first line of defense against disaster. In the years that followed, Albania worked to rebuild not only houses but also schools, public services, and entire communities, guided by the principle of building back together. The experience taught us that reconstruction is not merely about replacing what was lost. It is about correcting old vulnerabilities and preparing better for future shocks. Today, our work is focused on 3 priorities. First, to place resilience at the center of housing, construction, and local development policies. The cities of tomorrow must not be built against nature, but with a clear understanding of seismic risk, floods, landslides, and extreme weather, and more importantly, be built in a way that foresees what climate change will bring. Second, to continue investing in urban quality— public space, greener neighborhoods, resource centers, better services, and more inclusive cities. Third, to advance towards smarter cities. Albania has started a major national smart city initiative with intelligent monitoring systems and technology driven urban management. We believe that smart cities are not a luxury for the future. They are becoming a necessity of the present. Technology also will not replace good governance, but without technology, governance will too often arrive late— after congestion, after disaster, after damage that could have been prevented. Dear friends, centuries ago Marco Polo wrote of natural riches of this land, a place where energy already connected distant worlds. Today, Baku gives light once again, not only through its resources but through ideas. Ideas on how to house the world, how to make it— cities and our life safer, how to ensure that development does not produce new inequalities. This forum is not only about diagnosing a global crisis, it is about advancing solutions through innovation, investment, and implementation. And definitely, that is the only serious path forward. Thank you for your attention.

Thank you, Excellency. I now have the honor to— of inviting His Excellency Oleksii Kuleba, Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine, to deliver his remarks. Your Excellency, the floor is yours.

Thank you very much, Your Excellency President Ilham Aliyev, Your Excellency First Vice President, First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva, Executive Director of UN-Habitat Anna-Claudia Rosbach, dear Excellencies, colleagues, friends. First of all, I would like to thank the organizers of the 13th World Urban Forum, our host, the Republic of Azerbaijan, and of course, UN-Habitat. Ukraine and Azerbaijan truly understand the price of resilience, as well as the importance of strong infrastructure, energy security, and modern urban development. We deeply value our partnership and the opportunity to have this conversation here in Baku. Today, Ukraine is participating in this forum while facing a full-scale nuclear war that has been ongoing for over 4 years. In this war, we are losing our infrastructure, including housing, industrial assets, energy capacities, and human capital. According to the recent damage and needs assessment, destruction to our infrastructure sectors exceeds $195 billion. Housing alone accounts for over $60 billion, with restoration needs estimated at $88 billion. As a result, the war has fundamentally changed how we understand modern cities and daily life. In Ukraine, over 70% of the population continue to live in cities and urban areas, even though living in a city during wartime is incredibly challenging. We are rethinking our approach to urban planning, infrastructure, and public spaces. It is about a city's ability to fully function despite constant security threats, shelling, or blackouts. It is about energy independence, protection, and building shelters. And in frontline region, it means maintaining a full parallel life underground. We are integrating the principles of the new European Bauhaus sustainability and inclusivity into our restoration process. Today, accessibility is a fundamental requirement for war veterans, people with disabilities, families with children and all citizens. For Ukraine, energy efficiency is a matter of national energy security and community resilience. Today, Ukraine has a unique opportunity to shape a new culture of urban development, a culture focused on resilience, human-centered design, and crisis readiness. Let me state a few examples. Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, following massive missile attacks in winter when the temperature was -20 degrees, more than a million people were left without heating. We had to set up heating station right in the courtyards between residential buildings. We call them points of invincibility. We installed generators to provide our people with water and electricity. And today we are doing everything we can to make the city's neighborhoods home to hundreds of thousands of citizens autonomous and less vulnerable to wartime challenges. This is our new reality. The war was created a unique situation in Ukraine. While some of our systems were destroyed, others are growing significantly stronger. Under this exact condition, Ukraine continues to rebuild and restore our social resilience, adaptability. The role of local governments, digital governance, and the speed of decision-making have all grown, and this experience is truly unique. Most restoration models around the world are implemented after a war ends. Ukraine is rebuilding during an active war. Restoration starts with people, and restoration is for people. The key question is, is the community active? And this is the core principle that we have brought here to Baku. Let me give you one example more. This is about a small town near Kyiv, Baradyanka. This town in the Kyiv region was destroyed by nearly 80% by Russian troops. Housing, schools, social infrastructure, entire neighborhoods were wiped out. Today, Baradyanka is more than 90% restored.

Thank you.

And it was not just rebuilt, it was reconstructed comprehensively to meet all modern standards for safety, inclusion, energy sufficiency, autonomy, while integrating advanced digital solutions. And people are coming back home. This is the true meaning of restoration. Around the world, the housing crisis is becoming one of the biggest social challenges. For Ukraine, this problem has an even deeper dimension because of the war. Russia is committing a true urban, urban side, waging war against our cities. Around 40% of the country's housing stock has been damaged or destroyed. This includes more than 338,000 private homes and over over 41,000 apartment buildings. More than 4.6 million Ukrainians affected by the war were forced to leave their homes and move to safer regions. For us, housing is a fundamental precondition for people to return, for preserving communities, and for maintaining social stability. It is human right to have a home. That is why today Ukraine is emphasizing the need to create new housing, develop modern housing policies, and build an affordable, safe living environment. To repeat, security cannot be a separate policy anymore. It must be a part of a city architecture, transport, energy, housing, schools, and hospitals. Today, Ukraine is not just a country that is rebuilding. It is a country shaping new global ways to make cities resilient in the 21st century. What we are building now is a model of a city that can survive war, energy attacks, and humanitarian crisis, all the— all all the same time. Thank you for your attention. Thank you very much.

Thank you, Excellency. I would now warmly welcome Her Excellency Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Honorable Chief Minister of Punjab, Pakistan. You have the floor, Excellency.

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim. In the name of God. Most Gracious, Most Merciful. Excellencies, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, assalamu alaikum. It is a privilege to join the Leaders Summit at the World Urban Forum in Baku, a city that reflects modern urban infrastructure, vision, and global connectivity, and whose historic old city reflects shared civilizational links, including ancient trade routes such as the Multan Sarai and centuries-old people connections between Pakistan and Azerbaijan. I bring with me the greetings of my father, former Prime Minister of Pakistan Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, and the current Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif, and love from the people of Pakistan. I would like to begin by expressing my sincere gratitude to the Government of Azerbaijan, to the President of Azerbaijan, for the warm hospitality and arrangements par excellence. Thank you very much. It was indeed deeply inspiring. To listen to His Excellency President Ilham Aliyev's vision for sustainable development and resilient cities. His leadership in transforming Baku and Azerbaijan into modern, vibrant, and globally connected place is truly commendable. My father, ladies and gentlemen, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan, and the founding leadership of Azerbaijan, particularly late Heydar Aliyev, may his soul rest in peace, shared a relationship rooted in trust, mutual respect, and deep profound friendship. They were true brothers in spirit, and that bond of friendship between the two countries continues to define the strength of Pakistan-Azerbaijan relations today. And so, standing here today in Baku, I feel I have not come to a foreign land. I have come home. And I consider it as a matter of honor that my first visit to any Central Asian country is here in Baku, a city that represents resilience, transformation, and progress. Excellencies, I bring to you a story from Punjab, Pakistan, a province of more than 130 million people, on a journey of transformation, on a journey of challenge, on a journey of indomitable will, on a journey of unwavering resolve to redefine how cities are built, and how dignity is delivered. At its heart, ladies and gentlemen, lies a simple truth: cities become resilient only when development is people-centric, climate-conscious, and data-driven. Cities are not just roads and buildings, They are human stories where dignity is either protected or denied. When I took oath as the first woman Chief Minister of Punjab, I knew I was not inheriting a position. I was inheriting a responsibility, a responsibility Responsibility to the woman walking miles carrying water for her family, child breathing polluted air, and family living without secure shelter, and citizens waiting for promises— not for promises, but for dignity. And so, ladies and gentlemen, we launched the historic Punjab Economic Registry, the first-ever province-wide door-to-door socioeconomic data of its kind, guided by one principle: no one should be left behind. Because if something is not measured, ladies and gentlemen, it cannot be fixed. So our first priority was shelter. Under the flagship program of my government, in Urdu it is called Apni Chat Apna Ghar, my roof, my home, is delivering one of the fastest and largest affordable housing initiatives in the world through zero interest. And ladies and gentlemen, I'm very happy to share with you that in just less than a year, just less than a year, 160 families have received housing support and more than 100,000 families have completed and already moved into their new homes. But ladies and gentlemen, behind every number is a challenge. A mother no longer fearing rain on her children, a father finally able to say, that this is my home. This is not just housing, ladies and gentlemen. This is a dignity. This is dignity made permanent. Through our Model Villages Program, more than 2,000 villages are being transformed across Punjab with clean drinking water, with sanitation, sewage, drainage, paved street, and solar infrastructure. Access to clean drinking water has become a central public health and human dignity priority for me across Punjab. For the first time at this scale, ladies and gentlemen, Punjab is expanding clean drinking water infrastructure across urban and rural communities alike through new filtration systems, upgraded supply networks, and sustainable water solutions. Because no woman should have to walk miles carrying water for her family, and no child should suffer because of unsafe drinking water, because dignity must not depend on geography. When villages are dignified, cities are strengthened. Rural uplift is urban resilience. Punjab has launched a historic historic urban development program of more than $2 billion across Punjab, rebuilding roads, drainage, sewage, water storage, and urban resilient infrastructure. More than— just in 2 years' time, Excellencies, more than 30,000 kilometers of roads have been constructed and completed. Reconnecting communities, restoring mobility and economic activity in just 2 years. There is a lot more to come, inshallah. Urban flooding resilience is now being systemically strengthened across Punjab after last year's flooding events. We had devastating floods last year that displaced displaced about 5 million families, and to rehabilitate them was, was no mean feat, ladies and gentlemen. So now we immediately shifted toward flood-resilient infrastructure and climate-adaptive urban planning. This is the first time in decades that urban flooding is being addressed in a structured and data-driven driven way. For the first time under Magnificent Punjab, we are undertaking a comprehensive revival of tourism, heritage, and cultural infrastructure across Punjab. More than 100 heritage sites, museums, archaeological landmarks, ecotourism destinations, and religious sites are under renovation. restoration, preservation, and rescue, reconnecting our people with history, identity, and culture while making our cities more tourist-friendly, inclusive, and globally connected. Lahore, the capital of Punjab, is a walking museum and the cultural heartbeat of Pakistan. Has proudly been declared the ecotourism capital for 2026 and 2027. The SCO has also recognized Lahore as a major tourism and cultural destination. I invite you all earnestly to come and see the magnificence that Punjab holds. This revival is not only about preserving the past It is about creating opportunity, strengthening identity, and opening our cities to the world with pride, humility, and confidence. Through our flagship Sutra Punjab— means Clean Punjab— program, more than 150,000 sanitation workers serve the province every single day. In multiple shifts, making it one of the world's largest solid waste collection programs. This initiative is now being strengthened and modernized with a clear direction toward a waste-to-value transition, where solid waste will gradually be processed into recycling streams, compost, and energy recovery systems. This marks an important shift. From traditional sanitation towards a circular economy model, where cities are not only kept clean but also designed to become more resource-efficient, sustainable, and future-ready. A clean city is not only dignity, it is sustainability in action. Air quality has become a central priority. With a multi-sectoral technology-driven approach to smog control focused on enforcement, monitoring, real-time monitoring and compliance, clean air now in Punjab is not a privilege, it is a right. Punjab is building a clean mobility future. 1,100 electric buses have been introduced in the first phase, with a target of 5,000 electric buses by 2029. 2,000 buses this year, alongside electric bikes and electric taxis. Under Plant for Punjab, we have planted over 50 million trees in 2 years, restoring ecological balance and building urban forest rings. 1% of all the development spending is now dedicated to climate resilience. We have expanded the Safe City technology-driven camera surveillance program to all parts of Punjab. The whole of Punjab is now CCTV monitored because I believe that safe cities are not only about surveillance and keeping an eye on law and order. They are about technology, they're about prevention, they are about protection, especially for the vulnerable sections of the society, for women and children and every citizen. Excellencies, my dear friends, ladies and gentlemen, Honorable President of Azerbaijan today rightly said in the morning opening session that development demands courage because courage leads to bold decision-making and decision-making leads to effective implementation. I fully agree with this guiding principle and this is what I'm taking home, Excellencies, because courage is at the heart of every meaningful reform and project I am pursuing for the last 2 years. From housing to urban resilience, every project I have undertaken is driven by bold and daring spirit to change the status quo. For every leader, this strikes a chord that development is never cautious. It is It's the courage that makes all the difference. Friends, the success of government is not measured in speeches, but in lives changed, in lives improved. From Baku, a city of transformation, we carry a shared message: resilient cities are not a privilege. right for all humanity. Let us turn vision into action and ambition into impact so that our cities are defined not by inequality but by dignity, resilience, and hope. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. Pakistan Zindabad! Azerbaijan Zindabad! Thank you.

Thank you. Thank you very much, Excellency. Excellencies, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, today's Leaders' Session has demonstrated the growing importance of cities and urban development within the global agenda and the value of dialogue at the highest political level. The perspectives and commitments shared today will contribute to strengthening international cooperation and advancing collective efforts toward a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive urban future. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all heads of state and government, as well as Thank you very much. Thanks to all distinguished participants for your presence and contributions to this important discussion. It has been a great privilege for Baku to host this historic Leaders' Session within the framework of the World Urban Forum. With this, I would like to formally conclude the Leaders' Session. Thank you.