A representative receives a media interview during the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF 13) in Baku, Azerbaijan, May 17, 2026. The WUF 13 opened on Sunday, with global leaders, policymakers and urban experts gathering to discuss the challenges of rapid urbanization and sustainable city development. (Xinhua/Chen Junfeng)
BAKU, May 17 (Xinhua) -- The 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF 13) opened on Sunday, with global leaders, policymakers and urban experts gathering to discuss the challenges of rapid urbanization and sustainable city development.
The forum, running through May 22, is expected to focus on affordable and resilient housing, climate adaptation, infrastructure development and inclusive urban growth, while providing countries with a platform to share urban development experience and innovative solutions.
Jointly organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme and the Azerbaijani government, this year's edition will feature the debut of a Leaders' Summit. Initiated by the Azerbaijani government, the summit will bring together heads of state and government, along with senior officials, to discuss strategic priorities for the future of cities and strengthen international cooperation.
"These initiatives once again demonstrate that housing and urban development are no longer merely technical matters, but issues of global strategic importance that require leadership at the highest level," said WUF13 national coordinator Anar Guliyev.
On the opening day, Azerbaijan chaired a ministerial meeting on the New Urban Agenda. Held at the midpoint of the agenda's 20-year implementation period, the meeting reviewed progress achieved so far, identified key challenges and discussed priorities for the next stage.
Established by the United Nations in 2001, the WUF serves as a high-level platform for dialogue on sustainable urbanization. Its first session was held in Nairobi in 2002. ■
Representatives arrive at the venue for the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF 13) in Baku, Azerbaijan, May 17, 2026. The WUF 13 opened on Sunday, with global leaders, policymakers and urban experts gathering to discuss the challenges of rapid urbanization and sustainable city development. (Xinhua/Chen Junfeng)
This photo taken on May 17, 2026 shows a scene at the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF 13) in Baku, Azerbaijan. The WUF 13 opened on Sunday, with global leaders, policymakers and urban experts gathering to discuss the challenges of rapid urbanization and sustainable city development. (Xinhua/Chen Junfeng)
Representatives communicate with each other at the venue for the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF 13) in Baku, Azerbaijan, May 17, 2026. The WUF 13 opened on Sunday, with global leaders, policymakers and urban experts gathering to discuss the challenges of rapid urbanization and sustainable city development. (Xinhua/Chen Junfeng)
