Khankendi, Azerbaijan – October 15, 2025
ECO Deputy Secretary General Ambassador Silapberdi Nurberdiyev participated in the Third National Urban Forum of Azerbaijan, which officially commenced today in Khankendi.
Under the theme “Resilient Cities – Green Growth and Inclusive Recovery,” this forum convenes senior government officials, international experts, representatives from UN agencies, regional organizations, and civil society to address the challenges and opportunities associated with post-conflict urban reconstruction and sustainable development. The forum is organized by the State Committee on Urban Planning and Architecture of the Republic of Azerbaijan in collaboration with UN-Habitat and other development partners. More than 300 participants from across ECO member states, the United Nations system, and various international and regional bodies attend the forum.
During the opening session, national officials underscored the significance of hosting the forum in Khankendi, a city currently undergoing extensive reconstruction and reintegration following recent developments. The Baku segment of the forum, scheduled for October 17, will continue the high-level discussions and feature a keynote address by Ambassador Nurberdiyev, who will expound upon the role of regional cooperation in fostering resilient and sustainable cities across the ECO region.
The outcomes of this forum are poised to inform Azerbaijan’s national urban development strategies and contribute to global processes, including preparations for the World Urban Forum 12, set to take place in Baku in May 2026.
