On 20 May, an event titled “Transforming Informal Settlements and Slums” was held as part of the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13).

Axar.az reports that Mikayil Jabbarov, Minister of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan, took part in the session.

In his remarks, the Minister highlighted the urban planning and reconstruction activities being carried out in Azerbaijan’s liberated territories, noting that after more than 30 years, many people are finally returning to their homelands.

He also spoke about recent steps taken to simplify occupancy permit procedures for multi-apartment residential buildings, as well as certain amnesty measures applied to private houses and informal settlements that meet basic urban planning standards.

The Minister emphasized that developing housing infrastructure on sustainable and innovative foundations, as well as integrating such settlements into the economic system, is a strategic development priority that strengthens both social security and the efficiency and resilience of the urban economy. He noted that housing policy in Azerbaijan is viewed not only in terms of construction and provision, but also through the lens of inclusive economic development, social equality and financial sustainability.