In a world grappling with complex challenges like climate change, poverty, and inequality, solutions are often found where innovation thrives. This was the focus of discussions at the 3rd Azerbaijan National Urban Forum in the picturesque cities of Khankendi and Baku, where UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN-Habitat, Anaclaudia Rossbach, shared valuable insights about the urban transformation experiences of China.
Rossbach remarked how China’s rapid urban development over the last decade has not only transformed its own cities but also holds significant lessons for the global community. “I am truly impressed by the remarkable progress of Chinese cities, particularly over the past 10 to 15 years,” she stated during her interview with Africazine. This progressive evolution is seen as a beacon of hope for various nations as they aim to tackle pressing issues in urban environments.
The collaboration between China and UN-Habitat is noteworthy and has been instrumental in shaping initiatives such as the Shanghai Manual and the Shanghai Award. These tools serve as guiding lights for cities worldwide, showcasing innovative practices tethered to the New Urban Agenda—a comprehensive framework adopted at the 2016 UN Conference on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development (Habitat III). The New Urban Agenda focuses on fostering sustainable, inclusive, and resilient cities that prioritize environmental considerations and social equity.
Rossbach pointed out that the Shanghai Manual is particularly popular, ranking as the second most downloaded publication from UN-Habitat. This resource allows cities and various stakeholders to access a wealth of knowledge and effective practices that align with the goals set forth in the New Urban Agenda.
Additionally, she praised China’s observance of World Cities Day on October 31, a day dedicated to raising awareness about urbanization’s crucial role in sustainable development. This annual celebration serves as a reminder of the importance of creating urban spaces that are not only functional but also harmonious with their surroundings.
There’s an undeniable optimism in Rossbach’s vision for future collaborations between UN-Habitat and China, particularly in addressing significant global challenges from an urban perspective. As cities become increasingly pivotal in tackling these pressing issues, sharing best practices internationally provides a pathway for countries to learn from each other’s experiences.
This dialogue at the Azerbaijan forum underscores the urgency of addressing the multifaceted challenges of urbanization while promoting sustainable growth—a goal that resonates well across the African continent and beyond.
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